Yaoshanicus Arcus (Aphyocypris arcus)

Family: Cyprinidae

Yaoshanicus Arcus — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 6–8.8 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: 6–8.8 cm
Minimum tank: 93 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Aphyocypris arcus lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 6–8.8 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Aphyocypris species we profile, alongside Aphyocypris kikuchii, Aphyocypris normalis, Aphyocypris chinensis.

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 Aphyocypris arcus 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 Aphyocypris arcus need?

Hold 18–26 °C and keep it stable — 18–26 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Aphyocypris arcus get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 6–8.8 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 93 litres.

What does Aphyocypris arcus eat?

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

Can Aphyocypris arcus 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 Aphyocypris arcus come from?

Its habitat is clear streams and rivers over gravel — moderate, well-oxygenated current, appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Aphyocypris arcus jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Aphyocypris arcus breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.