Nandi labeo (Labeo nandina)

Family: Cyprinidae

Nandi labeo — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 60.9–89.3 cm; keep at 21–27 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
21–27 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
60.9–89.3 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Labeo nandina lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 60.9–89.3 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Labeo species we profile, alongside Labeo bata, Labeo boggut, Labeo calbasu.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
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
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Nandi labeo easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Nandi labeo need?

Set the heater to 21–27 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Nandi labeo get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 60.9–89.3 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Nandi labeo eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Nandi labeo live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — 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 Nandi labeo come from?

Found in clear streams and rivers over gravel; expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Nandi labeo jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Nandi labeo breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.