Hemibarbus umbrifer

Family: Cyprinidae

A peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from the rivers of southern China and northern Vietnam — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
13.6–19.5 cm
Minimum tank
195 L
Water layer
Mid-water swimmer
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
中国南方各水系、越南北部

Species overview

Hemibarbus umbrifer is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 13.6–19.5 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Hemibarbus labeo, Hemibarbus maculatus, Hemibarbus longirostris.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂
Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand
Hardscape
Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants
Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Solitary, pairs or small groups
Diet
Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
  • China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
  • Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
  • Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method
Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Hemibarbus umbrifer easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful. Solitary, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Hemibarbus umbrifer need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily; community-standard range; verify locally.

How big does Hemibarbus umbrifer get, and what tank size?

Expect 13.6–19.5 cm as an adult, living mid-water swimmer. A 195 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Hemibarbus umbrifer eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Hemibarbus umbrifer live with other fish?

Peaceful; solitary, pairs or small groups. Good company: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Hemibarbus umbrifer come from?

Native to 中国南方各水系、越南北部, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Moderate flow; Average oxygen needs.

How does Hemibarbus umbrifer breed?

Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.