Bilobed-lip Schizothoracin — a Cyprinidae from Tibetan Plateau waters, generally peaceful but predatory on small fish. Reaches 43.1–63.3 cm; young fish group; grown ones want space. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
43.1–63.3 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Generally peaceful but predatory on small fish
Origin
Tibetan Plateau waters
Species overview
Ptychobarbus kaznakovi, a member of the family Cyprinidae, is native to Tibetan Plateau waters. Its home water is snowmelt: cool, fast and oxygen-saturated, with hot summers as the main threat. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 43.1–63.3 cm. Young fish group; grown ones want space. Keep it cool, moving and oxygen-rich; summer temperatures above 24 °C are the real danger. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Best suited to a keeper who can match its natural water.
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
Young fish group; grown ones want space
Diet
Omnivore leaning carnivorous — pellets plus fish and vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
Cold-water catfish of similar bulk — Share the cool, current-rich regime
Avoid keeping with
Small fish — Will be eaten
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
No routine aquarium breeding; simulate winter chill to condition