White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes)

The White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes) is a hardy, peaceful, and colourful schooling fish that has been a favourite among aquarists for decades. Native to the White Cloud Mountain region of southern China, this species is renowned for its adaptability, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers.

These active little fish display shimmering bronze bodies highlighted with vibrant red and gold fins, creating an eye-catching display as they school together. While now commonly tank-bred, the species is considered endangered in its native habitat, making captive breeding an important part of its continued survival.

White Cloud Mountain Minnows occupy the upper and middle levels of the aquarium but will happily explore all areas while feeding. They are peaceful and mix well with other small community fish, ornamental shrimp, hillstream loaches, Stiphodon gobies, and other cool-water species. Although generally shrimp-safe, they may occasionally eat very small shrimp fry.

For the best colours and natural behaviour, they should always be kept in schools of at least 6–8 fish, with larger groups of 10 or more being ideal.

Feeding

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. Offer a quality micro pellet or flake as their staple food, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, microworms, bloodworms, and Tubifex. Including spirulina-based foods will also help maintain excellent colour and health.

Why We Like This Fish

• Bright red and gold colouration
• Peaceful and ideal for community aquariums
• Hardy and beginner-friendly
• Excellent for planted and nano aquariums
• Thrives in cooler water, making it ideal for unheated aquariums

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Temperature: 14–22°C
• pH: 6.0–8.5
• KH: 2–15 dKH
• Minimum Aquarium Size: 40–60 litres
• Group Size: 6–8 or more individuals

Care Information

• Diet: Omnivore – accepts high-quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen, and live foods.
• Temperament: Peaceful.
• Social Behaviour: Schooling species that should always be kept in groups.
• Origin: Tank-bred. Native to White Cloud Mountain, Guangdong Province, China.
• Maximum Size: Approximately 3–4 cm.
• Tank Level: Upper to middle.

Compatibility: Ideal with other peaceful community fish, including small rasboras, danios, Corydoras, hillstream loaches, Stiphodon gobies, and ornamental shrimp. Avoid housing with large or aggressive fish that may see them as food.

Please note: Sample photos are for reference only. Colour, size, and markings may vary slightly as each fish is unique.