Homatula variegata

Family: Nemacheilidae

A peaceful omnivore nemacheilidae from the upper Yangtze in China (Sichuan and Chongqing) — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
14.7–21 cm
Minimum tank
210 L
Water layer
Bottom; rests and forages low
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
upper Yangtze, China

Species overview

A Nemacheilidae species native to upper Yangtze, China: Homatula variegata lives bottom; rests and forages low over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful. Adults reach 14.7–21 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Amur False Gudgeon, China-Bitterling.

Native biotope

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

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
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 Homatula variegata easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Homatula variegata need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — community-standard range; verify locally. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily.

How big does Homatula variegata get, and what tank size?

Full size is 14.7–21 cm. Minimum tank: 210 L, with open swimming space along its bottom; rests and forages low habits.

What does Homatula variegata eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Homatula variegata 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 Homatula variegata come from?

Native to upper Yangtze, China, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Moderate flow; Average oxygen needs.

How does Homatula variegata breed?

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