Family: Cyprinidae
Rhodeus spinalis — a Cyprinidae from China, peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress. Reaches 7.5–11 cm; sociable; a larger group spreads any squabbles. 18–25 °C.
Rhodeus spinalis, a member of the family Cyprinidae, comes from China, where it inhabits clear streams and rivers over gravel. Peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress and omnivore with a taste for vegetable foods and small live fare, it grows to 7.5–11 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 18–25 °C range. Other Rhodeus species in our database include Rhodeus fangi, Rhodeus lighti, Rhodeus ocellatus.
A moderate-level species: peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Aim for 18–25 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 18–25.0 °C typical for the genus.
Adults reach 7.5–11 cm; it is active throughout the water column. Plan for at least 145 litres.
Omnivore with a taste for vegetable foods and small live fare. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.
Yes, with care. Peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress — pair it with Other small peaceful cyprinids — Similar size, similar water and skip Fin-nippers — Their flowing fins invite damage.
Comes from China: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.
Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.
Spawns inside living freshwater mussels; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.