Squalidus intermedius

Family: Cyprinidae

Squalidus intermedius — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 6–8.8 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
6–8.8 cm
Minimum tank
93 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Squalidus intermedius of the family Cyprinidae is an aquarium-kept Cyprinidae. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins and omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter, it grows to 6–8.8 cm and prefers 18–26 °C water. Other Squalidus species in our database include Squalidus argentatus, Squalidus chankaensis, Squalidus nitens.

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 Squalidus intermedius easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Squalidus intermedius 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 Squalidus intermedius get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 6–8.8 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 93 litres.

What does Squalidus intermedius eat?

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

Can Squalidus intermedius live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Squalidus intermedius come from?

Its habitat is clear streams and rivers over gravel — moderate, well-oxygenated current, appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Squalidus intermedius jump?

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

How does Squalidus intermedius breed?

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