
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tanichthys albonubes
An extremely hardy small fish from China. Can be kept without a heater, a classic first fish for beginners.
The White Cloud Mountain minnow (Tanichthys albonubes) is a small cyprinid native to clear, cool mountain streams near Guangzhou, China, in the vicinity of the 'White Cloud Mountain.' At 3–4 cm, it features a striking green-to-gold body with a vivid red accent line and a red-tinged tail base, bearing a resemblance to a miniature neon tetra. Unusually for a 'tropical' fish, it thrives without a heater — tolerating temperatures from 16 to 26°C — making it among the most recommended species for beginners and for coldwater aquariums. In its native habitat, the species is essentially extinct in the wild due to pollution and tourism development, though a remnant population was discovered on Hainan Island. Fortunately, captive breeding is effortless, ensuring stable aquarium supplies. Schooling in groups of ten or more produces beautiful coordinated movement. Highly adaptable to a wide pH range (6.0–8.0) and unfussy about diet — flake food, frozen daphnia, and bloodworms are all accepted. Breeding is straightforward: eggs scattered among fine plants hatch and grow without specialized intervention.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
China
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
3-4cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Artificial feed
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Tanichthys albonubes は CITES 非該当。IUCN 未評価のため記載せず。
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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ヒーターなしで常温飼育可能
非常に丈夫で初心者最適
群れで飼育すると美しい
水質にうるさくない
屋外のビオトープでも飼育可能
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for White Cloud Mountain Minnow is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of White Cloud Mountain Minnow is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
White Cloud Mountain Minnow typically reaches 3-4cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
White Cloud Mountain Minnow feeds on: Artificial feed. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of White Cloud Mountain Minnow varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026