Metzia mesembrinum

Family: Cyprinidae

Metzia mesembrinum — a Cyprinidae from Taiwan, China. Reaches 3.6–5.3 cm; keep at 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
3.6–5.3 cm
Minimum tank
34 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin
Taiwan, China

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to Taiwan, China: Metzia mesembrinum lives middle of the water column over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 3.6–5.3 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Metzia species we profile, alongside Metzia formosae, Metzia lineata.

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 Metzia mesembrinum easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Metzia mesembrinum need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 18–26 °C typical for the genus.

How big does Metzia mesembrinum get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 3.6–5.3 cm; it is middle of the water column. Plan for at least 34 litres.

What does Metzia mesembrinum eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Metzia mesembrinum live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Metzia mesembrinum come from?

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

Does Metzia mesembrinum jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Metzia mesembrinum breed?

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