Leptobotia microphthalma

Family: Cobitidae

Leptobotia microphthalma — a Cobitidae from Yangtze basin, China, peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Reaches 7.5–11 cm; sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident. 22–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–28 °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, sociable and slightly nocturnal
Origin
Yangtze basin, China

Species overview

Leptobotia microphthalma is a Cobitidae from Yangtze basin, China. In the wild it prefers sandy stretches of slow rivers; in the aquarium it stays peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Plan on 7.5–11 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. Related profiles: Leptobotia elongata, Leptobotia pellegrini, Leptobotia flavolineata.

Native biotope

Habitat
Sandy stretches of slow rivers
Flow
Gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Tolerates moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand for burrowing
Hardscape
Smooth stones and driftwood caves
Plants
Low-light tolerant plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident
Diet
Omnivore that appreciates live or frozen treats
Recommended tankmates
  • Small calm cyprinids — Occupy a different water layer
Avoid keeping with
  • Large predators — Loaches are on the menu

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Females noticeably plumper when mature
Breeding method
Scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare

Frequently asked questions

Is Leptobotia microphthalma easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal. Sociable; keep 4–6 so night-time activity stays confident.

What temperature and water chemistry does Leptobotia microphthalma need?

Hold 22–28 °C and keep it stable — 22.0–28.0 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature stable range.

How big does Leptobotia microphthalma get, and what tank size?

Expect 7.5–11 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 145 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Leptobotia microphthalma eat?

Omnivore that appreciates live or frozen treats. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Leptobotia microphthalma live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful, sociable and slightly nocturnal — pair it with Small calm cyprinids — Occupy a different water layer and skip Large predators — Loaches are on the menu.

Where does Leptobotia microphthalma come from?

Its home waters are Yangtze basin, China — sandy stretches of slow rivers, with gentle current.

How does Leptobotia microphthalma breed?

In the aquarium: scatters eggs among fine plants; no aftercare. Females noticeably plumper when mature.