Chinese Lizard Gudgeon (Saurogobio dabryi)

Family: Cyprinidae

A peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from the major river systems of China and the Korean Peninsula — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature
12–22 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
19.1–27.3 cm
Minimum tank
273 L
Water layer
Bottom; rests and forages low
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Origin
China & East Asia

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to China & East Asia: Saurogobio dabryi lives bottom; rests and forages low over clear streams, rivers and still waters. Peaceful. Adults reach 19.1–27.3 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Saurogobio species we profile, alongside Saurogobio dumerili, Saurogobio gracilicaudatus, Saurogobio gymnocheilus.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow
Strong current with heavy aeration
Dissolved O₂
Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
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 Chinese Lizard Gudgeon easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful. Solitary, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Chinese Lizard Gudgeon need?

Set the heater to 12–22 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Chinese Lizard Gudgeon get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 19.1–27.3 cm; it is bottom; rests and forages low. Plan for at least 273 litres.

What does Chinese Lizard Gudgeon eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Chinese Lizard Gudgeon live with other fish?

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.

Where does Chinese Lizard Gudgeon come from?

Its home waters are China & East Asia — clear streams, rivers and still waters, with strong current with heavy aeration.

How does Chinese Lizard Gudgeon breed?

In the aquarium: spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.