Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow (Tanichthys micagemmae)

Family: Cyprinidae

A peaceful omnivore cyprinidae from Vietnam — beginner-friendly.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–27 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 1.6–2.3 cm
Minimum tank: 23 L
Water layer: Upper; surface-oriented; keep 8+
Difficulty: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Origin: 东亚淡水水系

Species overview

Tanichthys micagemmae is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 1.6–2.3 cm of adult fish at 18–27 °C. Related profiles: Tanichthys albonubes, Tanichthys thacbaensis.

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 8+; 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: Egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow easy to keep?

Difficulty: easy. Peaceful. Keep 8+; larger groups settle better.

What temperature and water chemistry does Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow need?

Hold 18–27 °C and keep it stable — 18–27 °C recorded range. Standard heater to hold the mid-range steadily.

How big does Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow get, and what tank size?

Full size is 1.6–2.3 cm. Minimum tank: 23 L, with open swimming space along its upper; surface-oriented; keep 8+ habits.

What does Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow eat?

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

Can Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful — pair it with Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, China-Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acanthorhodeus chankaensis — Similar size and water needs and skip Large aggressive cichlids — Bullying and injury risk, Known fin nippers — Constant stress and fin damage.

Where does Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow come from?

Comes from 东亚淡水水系: clear streams, rivers and still waters. Expect moderate flow and average oxygen needs.

Does Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow jump?

A confirmed jumper: fit a tight lid and lower the waterline slightly.

How does Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow breed?

Egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.