Vietnamese White Cloud Mountain Minnow, Tanichthys micagemmae

Your Price: $8.99

Part Number: 1629

Availability: Out of Stock.

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Introduction:

The Vietnamese White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys micagemmae) is a small, peaceful, and colorful freshwater fish native to Vietnam. Often compared to its cousin, the more well-known White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes), this species is prized for its striking iridescent coloration and ease of care. As a hardy species, it’s perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists, making a beautiful addition to a community tank.

1. Natural Habitat and Behavior

Natural Habitat: The Vietnamese White Cloud Mountain Minnow inhabits clear, slow-moving streams and shallow waters in the rivers of Vietnam. These waters are typically cool, well-oxygenated, and surrounded by dense vegetation, providing cover for the small fish.
Behavior: This species is known for its peaceful and active schooling behavior. They are social fish that thrive in groups of at least six or more, where they display more natural behavior and vibrant coloration. They swim actively in the middle to upper levels of the aquarium and are generally non-aggressive.

2. Aquarium Setup

Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small school of Vietnamese White Cloud Mountain Minnows. Since they are active swimmers, a longer tank is preferred to allow them to move freely.
Substrate and Décor: A dark, fine-grained substrate like sand or smooth gravel will help enhance their vibrant colors. Include plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks to mimic their natural habitat and provide hiding spaces. Floating plants can help create a natural, shaded environment.
Water Conditions: These minnows prefer cooler water temperatures between 64°F and 72°F, making them ideal for unheated tanks. They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5, with soft to moderately hard water. Maintain high water quality with regular water changes, as they are sensitive to poor conditions.
Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal. Too much light can stress them, while subdued lighting will encourage them to show their best colors.

3. Diet and Feeding

Omnivorous Diet: Vietnamese White Cloud Mountain Minnows are omnivores and will readily accept a wide variety of foods. Offer them high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms to provide variety and enhance their coloration.
Feeding Schedule: Feed them small amounts 1 to 2 times a day. They have small mouths, so ensure food is appropriately sized. Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality and prevent health issues.

4. Compatibility with Other Fish

Suitable Tank Mates: These peaceful fish are best kept with other small, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, danios, and other White Cloud Mountain Minnows. Bottom-dwelling species like corydoras and small loaches also make great companions.
Incompatible Species: Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may view them as prey or outcompete them for food, such as cichlids or large barbs.

5. Common Challenges and Tips

Cooler Water Preference: One of the most important aspects of keeping Vietnamese White Cloud Mountain Minnows healthy is maintaining cooler water temperatures. They are prone to stress in warm water, so ensure that your tank stays within their preferred range.
Schooling Behavior: To see their natural schooling behavior, keep them in groups of at least six or more. In smaller groups, they may become shy and lose their vibrancy.
Water Flow: These minnows appreciate a gentle to moderate water flow, which mimics the streams they inhabit in the wild. Avoid strong currents, which can stress them.

Conclusion:

The Vietnamese White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys micagemmae) is a fantastic choice for aquarists of all levels. With their peaceful nature, ease of care, and beautiful coloration, they add movement and beauty to any aquarium. As long as you provide them with cooler water, a well-planted environment, and compatible tank mates, they will thrive and become a lively and colorful feature of your community tank.

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