Triplophysa arnoldii

Family: Nemacheilidae

Triplophysa arnoldii — a Nemacheilidae freshwater fish. Reaches 5.2–7.7 cm; keep at 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
5.2–7.7 cm
Minimum tank
71 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful, active bottom-dweller

Species overview

Triplophysa arnoldii is a Nemacheilidae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful, active bottom-dweller. Plan on 5.2–7.7 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Triplophysa bleekeri, Triplophysa dalaica, Triplophysa leptosoma.

Native biotope

Habitat
Hill-streams and riffles over pebbles
Flow
Strong, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Requires well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Smooth pebbles and coarse sand
Hardscape
Stacked stones forming crevices
Plants
Anubias and other hardy attachers

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Gregarious; keep in groups
Diet
Omnivore; sinking granules and frozen foods
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
Females rounder-bodied
Breeding method
Rarely bred in captivity

Frequently asked questions

Is Triplophysa arnoldii easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful, active bottom-dweller. Gregarious; keep in groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Triplophysa arnoldii need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — 18–26 °C typical for the genus. Cooler, stable range preferred.

How big does Triplophysa arnoldii get, and what tank size?

Expect 5.2–7.7 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 71 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Triplophysa arnoldii eat?

Omnivore; sinking granules and frozen foods. It forages naturally over smooth pebbles and coarse sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Triplophysa arnoldii live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful, active bottom-dweller — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Triplophysa arnoldii come from?

Found in hill-streams and riffles over pebbles; expect strong, well-oxygenated current and requires well-oxygenated water.

How does Triplophysa arnoldii breed?

Rarely bred in captivity. Females rounder-bodied.