Species profile
White Cloud Mountain Minnow
Tanichthys albonubes
Peaceful
Easy care
54 L minimum aquarium
3–4 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small subtropical shoaling cyprinid; long-term cool-to-moderate temperatures suit it better than permanently warm tropical conditions.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
10–24 °C
pH
6–8
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.6
Peaceful and active. Maintain a proper shoal and leave open swimming space among planted cover.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
54 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Tanichthys albonubes
Alternative names
White Cloud Minnow, White Cloud Mountain Fish
Native range
Southern China, with the type population from the White Cloud Mountain region; introduced populations occur elsewhere.
Natural habitat
Cool, clear, vegetated streams and small flowing waters. Captive fish benefit from good oxygenation and moderate current.
Diet & feeding
Takes small insects, crustaceans, zooplankton and prepared microfoods; vary dry foods with small frozen/live items.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are usually slimmer and more intensely coloured; mature females become fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Non-guarding egg scatterer among fine plants or spawning media; adults may consume eggs and fry.