Oily Bitterling (Tanakia limbata)

Family: Cyprinidae

Oily Bitterling — a Cyprinidae from Japan, peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress. Reaches 6.7–9.8 cm; sociable; a larger group spreads any squabbles. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
6.7–9.8 cm
Minimum tank
115 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress
Origin
Japan

Species overview

Tanakia limbata is a Cyprinidae from Japan. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 6.7–9.8 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Tanakia koreensis, Tanakia himantegus, Tanakia lanceolata.

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
Sociable; a larger group spreads any squabbles
Diet
Omnivore with a taste for vegetable foods and small live fare
Recommended tankmates
  • Other small peaceful cyprinids — Similar size, similar water
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Their flowing fins invite damage

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Spawns inside living freshwater mussels; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Oily Bitterling easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Oily Bitterling need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Oily Bitterling get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 6.7–9.8 cm; it is active throughout the water column. Plan for at least 115 litres.

What does Oily Bitterling eat?

Omnivore with a taste for vegetable foods and small live fare. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Oily Bitterling live with other fish?

Peaceful; males spar gently in breeding dress. Recommended tankmates: Other small peaceful cyprinids — Similar size, similar water. Avoid Fin-nippers — Their flowing fins invite damage.

Where does Oily Bitterling come from?

Comes from Japan: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Oily Bitterling jump?

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

How does Oily Bitterling breed?

Spawns inside living freshwater mussels; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.