Chinese Bitterling (Acheilognathus barbatulus) – Rare Coldwater Cyprinid

Description & Care Instructions

Overview
The Chinese Bitterling (Acheilognathus barbatulus) is a small, peaceful cyprinid native to the Mekong and Nam Ma river basins in Laos, northern Vietnam, and southern China. This species is known for its unique reproductive behavior, where females use an ovipositor to deposit eggs inside freshwater mussels, providing a safe environment for the developing fry. 

Key Features

• Size: Up to 8.4 cm (3.3 inches) in standard length. 

• Habitat: Prefers cool, clear waters with temperatures ranging from 8–20°C (46–68°F).

• Behavior: Peaceful and best kept in schools of at least 6 individuals. 

• Reproduction: Females use an ovipositor to lay eggs inside freshwater mussels, where the eggs hatch and the fry remain until they can swim. 

Care Instructions

• Tank Setup: Provide a coldwater aquarium with smooth rocks and live freshwater mussels if planning to breed. 

• Water Parameters: Maintain a pH of around 7 and a temperature between 10–20°C (50–68°F). 

• Diet: Accepts a variety of foods, including flake food, live, and frozen offerings.

• Tankmates: Suitable companions include other coldwater species like dojo loaches. Avoid keeping with goldfish.