Tanichthys albonubes Hong Kong Form

The Hong Kong Form of Tanichthys albonubes represents the original wild population of the White Cloud Mountain Minnow, long thought extinct and then rediscovered in isolated Hong Kong streams. Compared to standard captive-bred strains, this form tends to be slightly more robust in body and displays rich, vivid fin colouration with deep red and clear yellow patterning in the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. The brilliant neon lateral stripe is well-defined. Like all T. albonubes, it requires cool, well-oxygenated water and is ideal for unheated or cool-room aquaria. It is extremely hardy once settled and lives harmoniously with any other temperate community species. Its historical significance as a rediscovered wild population makes it particularly interesting to conservationally-minded aquarists.

Water: Temperature 14–22 °C, pH 6.0–8.0, GH 5–15; cool water critical; good oxygenation. Tank: 30 L minimum; temperate planted tank; fine plants for natural behaviour; secure lid. Feeding: Small flake, micro-pellet, frozen daphnia and cyclops; varied diet enhances colour. Breeding: Prolific egg-scatterer; spawns over Java moss; remove adults; fry easy to raise. Compatibility: Excellent; mixes with all temperate community fish; peaceful with all similarly-sized species.