Kunming Nase (Xenocypris yunnanensis)

Family: Cyprinidae

Kunming Nase — a Cyprinidae from China. Reaches 17.2–25.3 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
17.2–25.3 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin
China

Species overview

Xenocypris yunnanensis is a Cyprinidae from China. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 17.2–25.3 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Xenocypris macrolepis, Xenocypris davidi, Xenocypris fangi.

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
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
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
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Kunming Nase easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Kunming Nase need?

Aim for 18–26 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 18–26 °C typical for the genus.

How big does Kunming Nase get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 17.2–25.3 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Kunming Nase eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Kunming Nase live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Kunming Nase come from?

Its home waters are China — clear streams and rivers over gravel, with moderate, well-oxygenated current.

Does Kunming Nase jump?

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

How does Kunming Nase breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.