Bitterling (Rhodeus amarus)
Rhodeus amarus
Origin: Europe (widespread from Western Europe to Western Asia)
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 9 cm
- Min Tank
- 500 L
- Lifespan
- 3-5
- Swimming Level
- middle
- Schooling
- Yes (6–20+)
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- Peaceful; ideal for wildlife ponds
About
The Bitterling is a small, jewel-like native European cyprinid famous for its remarkable reproductive strategy of laying eggs inside the gill chambers of freshwater mussels using a long ovipositor. Males develop iridescent pink, green, and blue breeding colours in spring. Suited to wildlife ponds with native aquatic plants and the presence of suitable freshwater mussels for breeding. An ecologically fascinating species.
Care Guide
Best suited to wildlife ponds with native vegetation and freshwater mussels (Unio/Anodonta spp.) for successful breeding. Water must be clean and well-oxygenated. Feed quality pond flakes and live invertebrates; also forages on algae and plant matter. Tolerates temperatures from 4–22°C. Cold hardy and requires no supplemental heating.
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