Triplophysa markehenensis

Family: Nemacheilidae

Triplophysa markehenensis — a Nemacheilidae from Tibetan Plateau waters, peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand. Reaches 8.9–13.1 cm; loose groups of 5+; loneliness makes them shy. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 18–26 °C
pH: 6.5–7.5
GH hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult length: 8.9–13.1 cm
Minimum tank: 206 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand
Origin: Tibetan Plateau waters

Species overview

Triplophysa markehenensis is a Nemacheilidae from Tibetan Plateau waters. In the wild it prefers hill-streams and riffles over pebbles; in the aquarium it stays peaceful bottom-dweller. Plan on 8.9–13.1 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: Loose groups of 5+; loneliness makes them shy
Diet: Omnivorous bottom-feeder — sinking pellets, frozen foods
Recommended tankmates: Other peaceful bottom fish — Share the lower water without conflict
Avoid keeping with: Boisterous feeders — Outcompete slow, nocturnal eaters

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Females rounder-bodied
Breeding method: Spawns over sand and plants; eggs are abandoned

Frequently asked questions

Is Triplophysa markehenensis easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Triplophysa markehenensis need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Cooler, stable range preferred; 18–26 °C typical for the genus.

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

Expect 8.9–13.1 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 206 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Triplophysa markehenensis eat?

Omnivorous bottom-feeder — sinking pellets, frozen foods. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Triplophysa markehenensis live with other fish?

Peaceful bottom-dweller; burrows in fine sand. Recommended tankmates: Other peaceful bottom fish — Share the lower water without conflict. Avoid Boisterous feeders — Outcompete slow, nocturnal eaters.

Where does Triplophysa markehenensis come from?

Native to Tibetan Plateau waters, where it lives in hill-streams and riffles over pebbles. Strong, well-oxygenated current; Requires well-oxygenated water.

How does Triplophysa markehenensis breed?

Spawns over sand and plants; eggs are abandoned. Females rounder-bodied.