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Care guide · Freshwater · fish

Vietnamese cardinal minnow

Tanichthys micagemmae

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The Vietnamese cardinal minnow (Tanichthys micagemmae) is a small shoaling fish from the Ben Hai river system in central Vietnam. It is sold under names such as Vietnamese minnow, cardinal minnow and royal white cloud; these trade names do not always identify the species reliably. Seriously Fish gives about 3 cm standard length and recommends a 45 × 30 cm base. Keep at least ten together in stable, cool-to-moderate water and choose calm, small companions. Confirm the species identity after purchase.

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At a glance

Temperature
18–23 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
2–8 °dGH
Aquarium length
At least 45 cm
Minimum aquarium volume
At least 41 L
Adult size
Up to 3 cm
Group size
At least 10 individuals
Temperament
Peaceful

About this species

Tanichthys micagemmae was described by Freyhof and Herder in 2001. It is a valid species in Tanichthyidae, not merely a colour form of the white cloud mountain minnow (T. albonubes). Older literature may use the broader family Cyprinidae. T. micagemmae is smaller; its pale lower body with grey spots and reddish pelvic and anal fins help distinguish it.

Natural habitat

The species is known from the Ben Hai river system in north-central Vietnam. The type locality was a clear, shallow, fast-flowing stream with a sandy bottom. Fish were found mainly along margins where the current was much reduced. This does not support a requirement for strong flow throughout an aquarium.

Aquarium and layout

Seriously Fish recommends a minimum 45 × 30 cm base and approximately 41 litres. Use a dark substrate, plants, floating cover, wood or leaf litter for structure. Retain swimming room and keep flow moderate; calm marginal zones are more relevant than maximum pump output. The stated footprint is a minimum, not a target for a large shoal with many other fish.

Water conditions

The specialist care profile gives 18–23 °C, pH 6.5–7.5 and GH 2–8 dGH. FishBase lists a wider temperature range up to 27 °C, but the Seriously Fish aquarium recommendation is narrower. Water values at the type locality were not recorded; treat these figures as husbandry guidance, not exact measured wild parameters. Make changes gradually.

Behaviour and group size

This fish is peaceful and social; keep a group of at least ten. Avoid much larger, boisterous or predatory companions that may outcompete or eat it. Small, calm tankmates may be suitable when temperature, chemistry and swimming space also match. Check that every fish gets food; pH overlap alone does not establish compatibility.

Feeding

It is likely a micropredator of small insects, worms, crustaceans and other zooplankton. Offer fine complete flakes or granules, regularly varied with small portions of Daphnia, Artemia or bloodworm. Some dry food may include plant or algal ingredients. Match particle size to its small mouth and ensure subordinate fish also feed.

Breeding

Tanichthys micagemmae scatters eggs and provides no parental care. A conditioned group may produce fry naturally in a mature, densely planted aquarium. For controlled spawning, use fine-leaved Taxiphyllum, a spawning mop or an egg barrier and gentle aeration. Adults may eat eggs and should be removed within two to three days. Eggs hatch in about 48–72 hours; fry initially need microscopic food.

Sources & review

This care guide draws on several specialist sources and was last checked on .

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