Hemimyzon formosanus

Family: Balitoridae

Hemimyzon formosanus — a Balitoridae from China. Reaches 7.5–11 cm; keep at 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
7.5–11 cm
Minimum tank
145 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial over a favourite perch
Origin
China

Species overview

A Balitoridae species native to China: Hemimyzon formosanus lives bottom-dwelling over fast-flowing mountain streams, clinging to rocks. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite perch. Adults reach 7.5–11 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Fast-flowing mountain streams, clinging to rocks
Flow
Very strong, highly oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Requires very high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Bare rock and coarse gravel
Hardscape
Large smooth boulders
Plants
Minimal; algae-covered stones instead

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Keep in a small group with enough perches
Diet
Herbivorous grazer; algae and spirina foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Difficult to distinguish
Breeding method
Not bred in home aquaria

Frequently asked questions

Is Hemimyzon formosanus easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite perch. Keep in a small group with enough perches.

What temperature and water chemistry does Hemimyzon formosanus need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — 18–26 °C typical for the family. Cool, highly oxygenated water.

How big does Hemimyzon formosanus get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 7.5–11 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 145 litres.

What does Hemimyzon formosanus eat?

Herbivorous grazer; algae and spirina foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Hemimyzon formosanus live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful; territorial over a favourite perch — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Hemimyzon formosanus come from?

Its home waters are China — fast-flowing mountain streams, clinging to rocks, with very strong, highly oxygenated current.

How does Hemimyzon formosanus breed?

Not bred in home aquaria. Difficult to distinguish.