Family: Cyprinidae
Herzensteinia microcephalus — a Cyprinidae from Tibetan Plateau waters, peaceful toward equals, merciless to fry. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; juveniles shoal; adults keep to pairs or singles. 18–26 °C.
Herzensteinia microcephalus, a member of the family Cyprinidae, comes from Tibetan Plateau waters, where it inhabits clear streams and rivers over gravel. Peaceful toward equals, merciless to fry and hearty feeder; alternate protein and vegetable meals, it grows to 11.2–16.5 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 18–26 °C range. In a community tank it pairs well with Cold-water catfish of similar bulk.
Intermediate difficulty. Peaceful toward equals, merciless to fry; juveniles shoal; adults keep to pairs or singles.
Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.
Full size is 11.2–16.5 cm. Minimum tank: 327 L, with open swimming space along its active throughout the water column habits.
Hearty feeder; alternate protein and vegetable meals. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.
Peaceful toward equals, merciless to fry; juveniles shoal; adults keep to pairs or singles. Good company: Cold-water catfish of similar bulk — Share the cool, current-rich regime. Keep away from Small fish — Will be eaten.
Native to Tibetan Plateau waters, where it lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.
Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.
In the aquarium: breeds seasonally in cool running water; aquarium success is rare. Males often slimmer and more colourful.