Family: Cyprinidae
Squalidus argentatus — a Cyprinidae from China, peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Reaches 14.1–20.7 cm; keep in a group of 4–6 for natural behaviour. 18–26 °C.
Squalidus argentatus, a member of the family Cyprinidae, comes from China, where it inhabits clear streams and rivers over gravel. Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates and omnivore; prepared foods with regular variety, it grows to 14.1–20.7 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 18–26 °C range. Other Squalidus species in our database include Squalidus chankaensis, Squalidus nitens, Squalidus wolterstorffi.
A moderate-level species: peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — 18–26 °C typical for the family. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.
Full size is 14.1–20.7 cm. Minimum tank: 500 L, with open swimming space along its active throughout the water column habits.
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular variety. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.
Peaceful; keep with similar-sized calm tankmates. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament. Avoid Fin-nippers — Constant stress.
Its home waters are China — clear streams and rivers over gravel, with moderate, well-oxygenated current.
Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.
Breeding is straightforward scatter-spawning. Males often slimmer and more colourful.