Schizothorax prenanti — a Cyprinidae from SW China, peaceful toward equals, merciless to fry. Reaches 29.6–43.5 cm; juveniles shoal; adults keep to pairs or singles. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
29.6–43.5 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful toward equals, merciless to fry
Origin
SW China
Species overview
Cyprinidae species Schizothorax prenanti comes from SW China. A cold, torrent-dwelling cyprinid of the plateau rivers — treat it like a temperate trout-stream fish, not a tropical. It uses the whole water column. Adults reach 29.6–43.5 cm. Juveniles shoal; adults keep to pairs or singles. Plan for chillers or a cool room, strong flow and excellent oxygen — heat kills where hunger cannot. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A solid choice for a well-planned community tank.
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
Juveniles shoal; adults keep to pairs or singles
Diet
Hearty feeder; alternate protein and vegetable meals
Recommended tankmates
Other large temperate cyprinids — Match size, temperature and diet
Avoid keeping with
Warm-water tropicals — Need different temperatures
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Breeds seasonally in cool running water; aquarium success is rare