Amur Three-lips (Opsariichthys uncirostris)

Family: Cyprinidae

Amur Three-lips — a Cyprinidae from Japan and Europe. Reaches 33.3–48.8 cm; keep at 10–22 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
10–22 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
33.3–48.8 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin
Japan and Europe

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to Japan and Europe: Opsariichthys uncirostris lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 33.3–48.8 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Opsariichthys species we profile, alongside Opsariichthys bidens, Opsariichthys pachycephalus, Opsariichthys evolans.

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 Amur Three-lips 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 Amur Three-lips need?

Set the heater to 10–22 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Amur Three-lips get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 33.3–48.8 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Amur Three-lips eat?

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

Can Amur Three-lips live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Amur Three-lips come from?

Comes from Japan and Europe: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Amur Three-lips jump?

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

How does Amur Three-lips breed?

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