Protosalanx chinensis

Family: Salangidae

Protosalanx chinensis — a Salangidae from 中国, calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Reaches 15.8–23.1 cm; small groups recommended. 20–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
20–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
15.8–23.1 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life
Origin
中国

Species overview

Salangidae species Protosalanx chinensis comes from 中国. A adaptable species that forgives beginner mistakes more readily than most. It swims in mid-water. Adults reach 15.8–23.1 cm. Small groups recommended. Give it clean water and room to behave naturally, and it will largely care for itself. Maintain 20–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.

Native biotope

Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Small groups recommended
Diet
Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Constant stress

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs