Kamatsuka (Pseudogobio esocinus)

Family: Cyprinidae

Kamatsuka — a Cyprinidae from Japan. Reaches 21.9–32.1 cm; keep at 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
21.9–32.1 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin
Japan

Species overview

Pseudogobio esocinus is a Cyprinidae from Japan. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 21.9–32.1 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Pseudogobio vaillanti.

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 Kamatsuka 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 Kamatsuka need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Kamatsuka get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 21.9–32.1 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Kamatsuka eat?

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

Can Kamatsuka 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 Kamatsuka come from?

Its home waters are Japan — clear streams and rivers over gravel, with moderate, well-oxygenated current.

Does Kamatsuka jump?

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

How does Kamatsuka breed?

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