
Vietnamese Cardinal Minnow
Tanichthys micagemmae
Pale lower flanks and a bold dark stripe, with red male fins.
Light and dark lateral stripes contrast above a pale belly. Mature males can develop larger dorsal and anal fins.
- Adult length
- Up to 3 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
- Water temperature
- 18–23 °C
- Lifespan
- 3–5 years
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Hardness
- 2–8 dGH
- Natural habitat
- The type locality is a clear, shallow, sandy stream with fast flow; the fish was collected in calmer marginal areas.
Avoid crowding and large or boisterous companions. Keep at 18–23°C.
Appearance and identification
This Vietnamese species is distinct from gold or longfin white-cloud strains. Compare flank colour and stripe width.
Same-species behaviour
Keep a group. Male colours intensify during displays.
Space requirements
Allow a 45 × 30 cm base with a group of 10 or more.
Diet and feeding
Rotate suitably small prepared foods and frozen or live foods.
Compatibility limits
Choose small, calm companions.
Aquarium environment
Provide plant cover and swimming room.
