Short-nose Gudgeon (Microphysogobio brevirostris)

Family: Cyprinidae

Short-nose Gudgeon — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 6.8–9.9 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: 6.8–9.9 cm
Minimum tank: 118 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Microphysogobio brevirostris lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 6.8–9.9 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Microphysogobio species we profile, alongside Microphysogobio tungtingensis, Microphysogobio amurensis, Microphysogobio chinssuensis.

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 Short-nose Gudgeon easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Short-nose Gudgeon need?

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

How big does Short-nose Gudgeon get, and what tank size?

Expect 6.8–9.9 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 118 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Short-nose Gudgeon eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Short-nose Gudgeon live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Short-nose Gudgeon come from?

It lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Short-nose Gudgeon jump?

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

How does Short-nose Gudgeon breed?

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