Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp (Onychostoma barbatulum)

Family: Cyprinidae

A peaceful algivore cyprinidae from East Asian freshwaters — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
15.7–22.5 cm
Minimum tank
225 L
Water layer
Mid-water swimmer
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
东亚淡水水系

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Onychostoma barbatulum lives mid-water swimmer over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful. Adults reach 15.7–22.5 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Onychostoma species we profile, alongside Onychostoma angustistomata, Onychostoma elongatum, Onychostoma gerlachi.

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
Solitary, pairs or small groups
Diet
Algivore; 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 Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Peaceful; solitary, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily; community-standard range; verify locally.

How big does Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 15.7–22.5 cm; it is mid-water swimmer. Plan for at least 225 litres.

What does Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp eat?

Algivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp live with other fish?

Peaceful. 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 Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp come from?

Native to 东亚淡水水系, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Strong current with heavy aeration; Demands high dissolved oxygen.

How does Taiwan Shoveljaw Carp breed?

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