Systomus spilurus

Family: Cyprinidae

Systomus spilurus — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 2.1–3.1 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
2.1–3.1 cm
Minimum tank
25 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Systomus spilurus is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 2.1–3.1 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 spilurus 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 Systomus spilurus 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 spilurus get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 2.1–3.1 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 25 litres.

What does Systomus spilurus eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Systomus spilurus 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 Systomus spilurus come from?

Found in clear streams and rivers over gravel; expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Systomus spilurus jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Systomus spilurus breed?

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