Thintail shoveljaw carp (Onychostoma leptura)

Family: Cyprinidae

Thintail shoveljaw carp — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 17.9–26.2 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
17.9–26.2 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Onychostoma leptura is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 17.9–26.2 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Onychostoma barbatulum, Onychostoma angustistomata, Onychostoma elongatum.

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 Thintail shoveljaw carp 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 Thintail shoveljaw carp need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Thintail shoveljaw carp get, and what tank size?

Expect 17.9–26.2 cm as an adult, living active throughout the water column. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Thintail shoveljaw carp eat?

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

Can Thintail shoveljaw carp 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 Thintail shoveljaw carp come from?

Its habitat is clear streams and rivers over gravel — moderate, well-oxygenated current, appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Thintail shoveljaw carp jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Thintail shoveljaw carp breed?

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