WHITE CLOUD MINNOW

The White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes) is a hardy, peaceful, and beautifully understated freshwater fish that has long been a favorite among aquarists. Originally discovered in the cool, clear streams of White Cloud Mountain in southern China, this species is often called the “poor man’s neon tetra” because of its shimmering colors and easy care. Its body glows with metallic shades of gold, green, and silver, accented by a bright red tail and fins with white tips, creating a classic and timeless look in any aquarium.

Adult White Cloud Mountain Minnows typically reach about 1.5 inches (3.5–4 cm) in length. They are active schooling fish that thrive when kept in groups of six or more, where their synchronized swimming and flashes of color add movement and harmony to the tank.

Ideal water parameters:
Temperature: 64–75°F (18–24°C) — they prefer cooler water
pH: 6.5–8.0
Hardness: 5–19 dGH

Tank setup:
These minnows thrive in aquariums of 15 gallons or larger with cool, well-oxygenated water and gentle flow. They do best in planted setups with open swimming space and shaded areas created by floating plants or driftwood. Use fine gravel or sand substrate, and maintain good water quality with regular changes. Because they prefer cooler water, they do not require a heater unless room temperatures drop too low.

Diet:
White Clouds are omnivorous and easy to feed. Provide a balanced diet of high-quality flakes or micro-pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms. Occasional vegetable-based foods such as spirulina flakes help maintain their color and health.

Temperament and tankmates:
White Cloud Mountain Minnows are peaceful, social fish that coexist beautifully with other gentle species. They are ideal for community tanks and unheated aquariums. Suitable tankmates include danios, hillstream loaches, small rasboras, and corydoras. Avoid aggressive or large fish that might harass them.

Breeding:
They are easy to breed in captivity. In a well-planted tank, adults will scatter eggs among plants or spawning mops. The adults generally do not eat many of their eggs, but removing them after spawning can improve fry survival. Eggs hatch within 48–60 hours, and fry can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food.

In summary, the White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes) is a peaceful, hardy, and colorful schooling fish that thrives in cooler water conditions. Its shimmering body, red fins, and easygoing temperament make it a perfect choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike—especially those looking for a vibrant, low-maintenance species for unheated or planted aquariums.