Family: Cyprinidae
Taiwan Lesser-bream — a Cyprinidae from Taiwan, China, calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Reaches 5.5–8 cm; small groups recommended. 18–26 °C.
A Cyprinidae species native to Taiwan, China: Metzia formosae lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Adults reach 5.5–8 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Metzia species we profile, alongside Metzia lineata, Metzia mesembrinum.
A moderate-level species: calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 18–26 °C typical for the family.
Expect 5.5–8 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 77 L tank or larger gives it room.
Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.
Yes, with care. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life — pair it with Robust schooling cyprinids — Add activity without conflict and skip Much larger predators — Risk at night.
Its home waters are Taiwan, China — clear streams and rivers over gravel, with moderate, well-oxygenated current.
Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.
Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs. Males often slimmer and more colourful.