Schizothorax yunnanensis

Family: Cyprinidae

Schizothorax yunnanensis — a Cyprinidae from China. Reaches 33.4–49 cm; keep at 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
33.4–49 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin
China

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to China: Schizothorax yunnanensis lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 33.4–49 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Schizothorax species we profile, alongside Schizothorax davidi, Schizothorax prenanti, Schizothorax lissolabiatus.

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
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Schizothorax yunnanensis easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Schizothorax yunnanensis need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — 18–26 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Schizothorax yunnanensis get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 33.4–49 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Schizothorax yunnanensis eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Schizothorax yunnanensis live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Schizothorax yunnanensis come from?

Its home waters are China — clear streams and rivers over gravel, with moderate, well-oxygenated current.

Does Schizothorax yunnanensis jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Schizothorax yunnanensis breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.