Nipponocypris temminckii

Family: Cyprinidae

A hardy, wide-temperature peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from China and the Korean Peninsula — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature
12–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
12.2–17.4 cm
Minimum tank
174 L
Water layer
Upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
朝鲜半岛

Species overview

Nipponocypris temminckii is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 12.2–17.4 cm of adult fish at 12–26 °C. Related profiles: Nipponocypris sieboldii, Nipponocypris koreanus.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Strong current with heavy aeration
Dissolved O₂
Demands high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
Hardscape
Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants
Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Keep 6+; larger groups settle better
Diet
Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
  • China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
  • Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
  • Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method
Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Nipponocypris temminckii easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Peaceful; keep 6+; larger groups settle better.

What temperature and water chemistry does Nipponocypris temminckii need?

Aim for 12–26 °C. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily; 12–26 °C recorded range.

How big does Nipponocypris temminckii get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 12.2–17.4 cm; it is upper; surface-oriented; keep 6+. Plan for at least 174 litres.

What does Nipponocypris temminckii eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Nipponocypris temminckii live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful — pair it with Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs and skip Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Nipponocypris temminckii come from?

Comes from 朝鲜半岛: clear streams, rivers and still waters. Expect strong current with heavy aeration and demands high dissolved oxygen.

Does Nipponocypris temminckii jump?

It can jump when startled — keep the tank tightly covered, especially at night and during maintenance.

How does Nipponocypris temminckii breed?

Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.