Family: Cyprinidae
A cool-tolerant peaceful bitterling from Japan, an omnivore cyprinidae that does well even in unheated water — moderate care.
Rhodeus smithii, a member of the family Cyprinidae, comes from Japan, where it inhabits clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful and omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety, it grows to 4.5–6.5 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 10–25 °C range. Other Rhodeus species in our database include Rhodeus fangi, Rhodeus lighti, Rhodeus ocellatus.
A moderate-level species: peaceful; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Aim for 10–25 °C. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily; 10–25 °C recorded range.
Full size is 4.5–6.5 cm. Minimum tank: 65 L, with open swimming space along its mid-water swimmer; keep 6+ habits.
Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. It forages naturally over smooth gravel and sand with open floor space, so let some food reach the bottom.
Peaceful. 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 Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.
Native to Japan, where it lives in clear streams, rivers and still waters. Still to very gentle water; Average oxygen needs.
Egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.