Jinshaia sinensis

Family: Balitoridae

A peaceful algivore balitoridae from East Asian freshwaters — advanced care.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 10.8–15.4 cm
Minimum tank: 154 L
Water layer: Bottom; rests and forages low
Difficulty: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Origin: 东亚淡水水系

Species overview

Jinshaia sinensis is a Balitoridae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 10.8–15.4 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Jinshaia abbreviata.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Strong current with heavy aeration
Dissolved O₂: Demands high dissolved oxygen

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: Algivore; 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 Jinshaia sinensis easy to keep?

For experienced keepers. Peaceful; solitary, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Jinshaia sinensis need?

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

How big does Jinshaia sinensis get, and what tank size?

Full size is 10.8–15.4 cm. Minimum tank: 154 L, with open swimming space along its bottom; rests and forages low habits.

What does Jinshaia sinensis eat?

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

Can Jinshaia sinensis live with other fish?

Peaceful. 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 Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Jinshaia sinensis come from?

Native to 东亚淡水水系, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Strong current with heavy aeration; Demands high dissolved oxygen.

How does Jinshaia sinensis breed?

In the aquarium: spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.