An unfussy, cold-tolerant peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from China, Japan and the Korean Peninsula — beginner-friendly.
Care parameters
Water temperature
5–22 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
8.8–12.5 cm
Minimum tank
125 L
Water layer
Mid-water swimmer; keep 5+
Difficulty
Easy
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
日本、朝鲜半岛
Species overview
Pseudorasbora parva is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 8.8–12.5 cm of adult fish at 5–22 °C. Related profiles: Pseudorasbora pumila.
Native biotope
Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂
Average oxygen needs
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Dark fine gravel or sand
Hardscape
Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants
Mixed planting with open swimming lanes
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep 5+; larger groups settle better
Diet
Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates
Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method
Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes
Frequently asked questions
Is the stone moroko a good beginner fish?
One of the best: hardy, peaceful, undemanding and inexpensive. Its main needs are a cycled tank and a modest group size.
Will it outcompete shyer tankmates?
At feeding time, yes — it is quick and bold. Choose tankmates of similar size and confidence, or target-feed shy species.
Can it live with shrimp?
Adults mostly ignore adult shrimp but will eat shrimplets and small fry. Provide moss cover if you want the small ones to survive.
Are they the same as the invasive topmouth gudgeon?
Yes — P. parva is the same species known as topmouth gudgeon in Europe, where introductions have caused ecological harm; never release aquarium stock.