Tanakia himantegus

Family: Cyprinidae

A peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from China, Vietnam — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 15–28 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 5.6–8 cm
Minimum tank: 80 L
Water layer: Mid-water swimmer; keep 6+
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Origin: 东亚淡水水系

Species overview

Tanakia himantegus is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 5.6–8 cm of adult fish at 15–28 °C. Related profiles: Tanakia koreensis, Tanakia lanceolata, Tanakia tanago.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Moderate flow
Dissolved O₂: Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Smooth gravel and sand with open floor space
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Hardy plants on hardscape; keep the floor open

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Keep 6+; larger groups settle better
Diet: Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk
Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method: Spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Tanakia himantegus easy to keep?

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

What temperature and water chemistry does Tanakia himantegus need?

Aim for 15–28 °C. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily; 15–28 °C recorded range.

How big does Tanakia himantegus get, and what tank size?

Full size is 5.6–8 cm. Minimum tank: 80 L, with open swimming space along its mid-water swimmer; keep 6+ habits.

What does Tanakia himantegus eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Tanakia himantegus live with other fish?

Peaceful. Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Tanakia himantegus come from?

Its home waters are 东亚淡水水系 — clear streams, rivers and still waters, with moderate flow.

How does Tanakia himantegus breed?

In the aquarium: spawning; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.