Systomus rufus

Family: Cyprinidae

Systomus rufus — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 7.9–11.7 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
1–18 dGH
Adult length
7.9–11.7 cm
Minimum tank
164 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Systomus rufus is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 7.9–11.7 cm of adult fish at 22–26 °C. Related profiles: Systomus asoka, Systomus barbatus, Systomus clavatus.

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 Systomus rufus easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Systomus rufus need?

Aim for 22–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 22.0–26.0 °C typical for the genus.

How big does Systomus rufus get, and what tank size?

Expect 7.9–11.7 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 164 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Systomus rufus eat?

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

Can Systomus rufus live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Systomus rufus come from?

It lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Systomus rufus jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Systomus rufus breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.