Bheema Osteobrama (Osteobrama vigorsii)

Family: Cyprinidae

Bheema Osteobrama — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 22.5–33 cm; keep at 22–25 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–25 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
22.5–33 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Osteobrama vigorsii lives active throughout the water column over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 22.5–33 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Osteobrama species we profile, alongside Osteobrama belangeri, Osteobrama cotio, Osteobrama peninsularis.

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 Bheema Osteobrama 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 Bheema Osteobrama need?

Aim for 22–25 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 22.0–25.0 °C typical for the genus.

How big does Bheema Osteobrama get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 22.5–33 cm; it is active throughout the water column. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Bheema Osteobrama eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Bheema Osteobrama 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 Bheema Osteobrama come from?

Found in clear streams and rivers over gravel; expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Bheema Osteobrama jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Bheema Osteobrama breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.