Family: Cyprinidae
Hainanese Barbel Steed — a Cyprinidae from China, mostly peaceful community fish. Reaches 19.6–28.8 cm; singly or in small groups depending on temperament. 18–26 °C.
A Cyprinidae species native to China: Hemibarbus medius lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful community fish. Adults reach 19.6–28.8 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Hemibarbus species we profile, alongside Hemibarbus labeo, Hemibarbus maculatus, Hemibarbus umbrifer.
Difficulty: moderate. Mostly peaceful community fish. Singly or in small groups depending on temperament.
Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — 18–26 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.
Expect 19.6–28.8 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.
Accepts quality flakes, granules and frozen foods. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.
Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful community fish — pair it with Robust schooling cyprinids — Add activity without conflict and skip Much larger predators — Risk at night.
Comes from China: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.
Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.
Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.