Rhodeus notatus — a Cyprinidae from Korean Peninsula, gentle community fish that dislikes fin-nippers. Reaches 3.7–5.4 cm; shoaling; keep at least 8 together. 18–25 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–25 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
3.7–5.4 cm
Minimum tank
35 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Gentle community fish that dislikes fin-nippers
Origin
Korean Peninsula
Species overview
From the waters of Korean Peninsula comes Rhodeus notatus, a member of the family Cyprinidae. Like its relatives it depends on living freshwater mussels for breeding, so a fine-sand bed and settled water matter more than décor. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 3.7–5.4 cm. Shoaling; keep at least 8 together. Offer small foods in calm corners and keep the water stable — this fish forgives little else in the way of sloppiness. Maintain 18–25 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.
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 at least 8 together
Diet
Unfussy omnivore; quality flakes plus blanched greens
Recommended tankmates
Other small peaceful cyprinids — Similar size, similar water
Avoid keeping with
Fin-nippers — Their flowing fins invite damage
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Mussel-brooding egg-scatterer; the male guards the mussel territory