Triplophysa nujiangensa

Family: Nemacheilidae

Triplophysa nujiangensa — a Nemacheilidae from China. Reaches 5.5–8 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
5.5–8 cm
Minimum tank
77 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful, active bottom-dweller
Origin
China

Species overview

A Nemacheilidae species native to China: Triplophysa nujiangensa lives bottom-dwelling over pebbles. Peaceful, active bottom-dweller. Adults reach 5.5–8 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Triplophysa species we profile, alongside 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 nujiangensa easy to keep?

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

What temperature and water chemistry does Triplophysa nujiangensa need?

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

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

Expect 5.5–8 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 77 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Triplophysa nujiangensa 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 nujiangensa 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 nujiangensa come from?

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

How does Triplophysa nujiangensa breed?

Rarely bred in captivity. Females rounder-bodied.