A peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from China, the Korean Peninsula, Russia — beginner-friendly.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–22 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
20.3–29 cm
Minimum tank
290 L
Water layer
Upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+
Difficulty
Easy
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
朝鲜半岛
Species overview
A Cyprinidae species: Hemiculter leucisculus lives upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+ over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful. Adults reach 20.3–29 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Hemiculter species we profile, alongside Hemiculter bleekeri, Hemiculter tchangi.
Native biotope
Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂
Average oxygen needs
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Dark fine gravel or sand
Hardscape
Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants
Dense floating plants for cover and security
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep 6+; larger groups settle better
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
Why do they panic when I approach the tank?
Surface-dwelling prey fish are wired for flight. A larger group, calmer tankmates and a background or backing on the tank reduce the startle response markedly.
Can they live with paradise fish or gobies?
With cool-water species of similar size, yes — they occupy the upper layer and largely ignore bottom fish. Anything small and slow may be outcompeted at feeding time.
How many should I keep?
Eight at minimum, more is better. In small numbers they are skittish; in proper shoals they are bold, active and silvery-bright.
Do they need a heater?
Usually not — room-temperature water within 18–24 °C suits them year-round, and a cool winter rest aligns with their natural cycle.