Family: Cyprinidae
A peaceful, surface-hugging omnivore cyprinidae from Japan; keep the Japanese Dark Chub in groups of six or more — moderate care.
Nipponocypris sieboldii, a member of the family Cyprinidae, comes from Japan, where it inhabits clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful and omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety, it grows to 8.8–12.5 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 18–26 °C range. Other Nipponocypris species in our database include Nipponocypris temminckii, Nipponocypris koreanus.
Intermediate difficulty. Peaceful; keep 6+; larger groups settle better.
Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — community-standard range; verify locally. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily.
Full size is 8.8–12.5 cm. Minimum tank: 125 L, with open swimming space along its upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+ habits.
Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. It forages naturally over smooth gravel and sand with open floor space, so let some food reach the bottom.
Peaceful; keep 6+; larger groups settle better. Good company: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.
Its home waters are Japan — clear streams, rivers and still waters, with strong current with heavy aeration.
A confirmed jumper: fit a tight lid and lower the waterline slightly.
Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.