Pethia macrogramma

Family: Cyprinidae

Pethia macrogramma — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 3.8–5.6 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
3.8–5.6 cm
Minimum tank
38 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Pethia macrogramma is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 3.8–5.6 cm of adult fish at 22–26 °C. Related profiles: Pethia atra, Pethia conchonius, Pethia cumingii.

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 Pethia macrogramma 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 Pethia macrogramma need?

Aim for 22–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 22.0–26.0 °C typical for the genus.

How big does Pethia macrogramma get, and what tank size?

Expect 3.8–5.6 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 38 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Pethia macrogramma eat?

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

Can Pethia macrogramma 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 Pethia macrogramma come from?

It lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Pethia macrogramma jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Pethia macrogramma breed?

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