Osteochilus kelabau

Family: Cyprinidae

Osteochilus kelabau — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 15–22 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
15–22 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Osteochilus kelabau is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 15–22 cm of adult fish at 22–26 °C. Related profiles: Osteochilus salsburyi, Osteochilus bleekeri, Osteochilus lini.

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 Osteochilus kelabau 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 Osteochilus kelabau need?

Set the heater to 22–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Osteochilus kelabau get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 15–22 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Osteochilus kelabau eat?

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

Can Osteochilus kelabau live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Osteochilus kelabau come from?

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

Does Osteochilus kelabau jump?

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

How does Osteochilus kelabau breed?

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