A large, peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from East Asian freshwaters; the Chinese Lake Gudgeon needs roomy tanks — moderate care.
Care parameters
Water temperature
16–22 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
21–30 cm
Minimum tank
300 L
Water layer
Mid-water swimmer
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
东亚淡水水系
Species overview
Sarcocheilichthys sinensis is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 21–30 cm of adult fish at 16–22 °C. Related profiles: Sarcocheilichthys nigripinnis, Sarcocheilichthys variegatus, Sarcocheilichthys davidi.
Native biotope
Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂
Average oxygen needs
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand
Hardscape
Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants
Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Solitary, pairs or small groups
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 it active during the day?
Moderately — it alternates between grazing bouts and resting under cover. It is calmer and more deliberate than mid-water shoalers, which many keepers find restful.
Will it dig up the substrate?
It noses and sifts rather than excavates, so planting is safe with it. Fine sand suits its feeding style best.
What tankmates suit it?
Other peaceful cool-water natives of similar size: bitterlings, gudgeons, small barbs. Avoid large, boisterous or aggressive species.
Do they clean algae like plecos?
They graze some algae but are not specialist cleaners — think of them as bottom omnivores that browse, not machines that polish glass.