Semilabeo notabilis

Family: Cyprinidae

Semilabeo notabilis — a Cyprinidae from Pearl River basin, China, peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Reaches 33–48.4 cm; keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
33–48.4 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates
Origin
Pearl River basin, China

Species overview

From the waters of Pearl River basin, China comes Semilabeo notabilis, a member of the family Cyprinidae. A adaptable species that forgives beginner mistakes more readily than most. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 33–48.4 cm. Keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. Give it clean water and room to behave naturally, and it will largely care for itself. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Best suited to a keeper who can match its natural water.

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
Keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular variety
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Constant stress

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Breeding is straightforward scatter-spawning