Long spiky-head carp (Luciobrama macrocephalus)

Family: Cyprinidae

Long spiky-head carp — a Cyprinidae from Yangtze basin, China, mostly peaceful community fish. Reaches 36–52.8 cm; singly or in small groups depending on temperament. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 36–52.8 cm
Minimum tank: 500 L
Water layer: Active throughout the water column
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Mostly peaceful community fish
Origin: Yangtze basin, China

Species overview

Luciobrama macrocephalus is a Cyprinidae from Yangtze basin, China. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful community fish. Plan on 36–52.8 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Robust schooling cyprinids.

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: Singly or in small groups depending on temperament
Diet: Accepts quality flakes, granules and frozen foods
Recommended tankmates: Robust schooling cyprinids — Add activity without conflict
Avoid keeping with: Much larger predators — Risk at night

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method: Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Long spiky-head carp easy to keep?

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

What temperature and water chemistry does Long spiky-head carp need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Long spiky-head carp get, and what tank size?

Full size is 36–52.8 cm. Minimum tank: 500 L, with open swimming space along its active throughout the water column habits.

What does Long spiky-head carp eat?

Accepts quality flakes, granules and frozen foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Long spiky-head carp live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful community fish — pair it with Robust schooling cyprinids — Add activity without conflict and skip Much larger predators — Risk at night.

Where does Long spiky-head carp come from?

Comes from Yangtze basin, China: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Long spiky-head carp jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Long spiky-head carp breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.