Fang’s Bitterling (Rhodeus fangi) – Elegant Subtropical Minnow

Fang’s Bitterling (Rhodeus fangi) is a petite and graceful subtropical fish native to several major Chinese river systems—the Pearl (Zhujiang), Yangtze (Changjiang), Yellow (Huanghe), and even Heilongjiang rivers—typically reaching up to 6.5 cm in length. This delicate species thrives in slow-moving or still freshwater environments where freshwater bivalves are present, which are vital for its unique breeding cycle: females deposit eggs inside mussels, where the fry safely develop before emerging.

For optimal care, maintain Fang’s Bitterling in a well-filtered, planted aquarium with gentle water flow. They prefer temperatures around 15–28 °C, neutral to slightly alkaline pH, and soft to moderately hard water. Given their peaceful nature, they should be kept in small shoals (6 or more) to encourage natural behavior. Their omnivorous diet accepts high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen invertebrates.