White Cloud Mountain Minnow
Also known as: White Cloud, Tanichthys albonubes
A hardy, cool-water shoaling fish — no heater required.
- Peaceful
- Hardy
- Active
- Social
- Colourful
The White Cloud Mountain minnow is a small, colourful fish from China that thrives in cooler water. They are hardy, peaceful and easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners and unheated tanks. They are happiest in groups.
At a glance
- Origin
- China
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 0–0.1 oz (1–2 g)
- Lifespan
- 5–7 years
- Coat
- Scales
- Colours
- Bronze, Red, Gold
- Average cost
- $5–$15 / month
Breed ratings
Rated 1–5 on the same scale as every other entry, so scores are comparable between breeds. Amber stars mark things that cost you effort rather than things that benefit you.
Temperament
White Clouds are peaceful and thrive in groups.
Care & upkeep
Exercise
A group of 6+ in at least 40 litres of cool water.
Grooming
Not applicable — maintain water quality.
Training
Not trainable, though they learn feeding routines.
Feeding & diet
- Typical diet
- Omnivorous micro diet
- Daily amount
- Small flakes or micro-pellets daily
- Meals per day
- 1–2 times daily
Feed small amounts and supplement with frozen foods.
Foods to avoid
- Overfeeding
- High temperatures
- Uncycled tanks
- Large aggressive tank mates
Who this breed suits
A good match for
- Beginner aquarists
- Unheated tanks
- Apartments
Probably not for
- Tropical tanks above 24°C
Common health problems
This section describes conditions the breed is known to be predisposed to, so you know what to ask about. It is not veterinary advice and is not a diagnosis — always speak to a vet about your own animal.
- IchA parasite triggered by stress or temperature swings.
- Fin rotLinked to poor water quality.
Avoid high temperatures, which shorten lifespan.
Interesting facts
- Once nearly extinct in the wild.
- Thrive in cool, unheated tanks.
- Males display bright colours to females.
Diet & Feeding
Feed small flakes or micro-pellets, plus frozen or live daphnia and brine shrimp a few times a week. Feed small amounts once or twice daily.
Tank & Water Requirements
Keep at least 6 in a group in a tank of at least 40 litres. They prefer 16–22°C and do well without a heater in most homes. pH 6.5–8.0.
Tank Maintenance
Change 25% of the water weekly and test regularly. Provide plants and gentle filtration.
Health & Vet Care
Generally hardy. Watch for ich and fin rot, usually linked to poor water quality or high temperatures.
Living with White Cloud Mountain Minnow
White Clouds are peaceful and colourful, ideal for cool-water tanks with similar-sized species.