Chinese Bitterling - Acheilognathus barbatulus
By: Jacko
Species Name: Acheilognathus barbatulus
Common Names: Chinese Bitterling
Synonyms: Acanthorhodeus barbatulus
Family: Cyprinidae
Order: Cypriniformes
Class: Actinopterygii
Max Size: 8 cm / 3 inches
Environment: Fresh Water
Origin: The Chinese Bitterling (Acheilognathus barbatulus) originates from the Mekong and Nam Ma river basins.
Temperament: Chinese Bitterlings (Acheilognathus barbatulus) are peaceful and are best kept in schools of around 6.
Company: Other coldwater fish, dojo loaches are good tankmates. Avoid goldfish.
Water Parameters: pH 7 , temperature 10-20 ° C / 52- 72 ° F
Aquarium Setup: A coldwater set up, smooth rocks, and mollusks, like freshwater clams, are preferred if planning to breed these fish.
Feeding: Chinese Bitterlings (Acheilognathus barbatulus) will usually accept most food types.
Breeding: Acheilognathus barbatulus females have ovispitors they use to lay eggs inside mollusks, where the eggs hatch and the fry take refuge in until they are able to swim.