Smallhead Bonylip Barb (Osteochilus microcephalus)

Family: Cyprinidae

Smallhead Bonylip Barb — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 18–26.4 cm; keep at 22–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 22–28 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 12–20 dGH
Adult length: 18–26.4 cm
Minimum tank: 500 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Osteochilus microcephalus is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 18–26.4 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. Related profiles: Osteochilus salsburyi, Osteochilus bleekeri, Osteochilus kelabau.

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 Smallhead Bonylip Barb 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 Smallhead Bonylip Barb need?

Aim for 22–28 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 22–28 °C recorded range.

How big does Smallhead Bonylip Barb get, and what tank size?

Expect 18–26.4 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Smallhead Bonylip Barb eat?

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

Can Smallhead Bonylip Barb 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 Smallhead Bonylip Barb come from?

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

Does Smallhead Bonylip Barb jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Smallhead Bonylip Barb breed?

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