Abbottina Rivularis

Datasheet

General Description
The Chinese False Gudgeon, scientifically known as Abbottina Rivularis, is a species that has become increasingly available in the aquarium trade, raising concerns due to its invasive potential if released into non-native waters. Belonging to the family Cyprinidae, it is categorized under the tribe Gobionini along with several other genera. The species typically grows up to 15.0cm in size and is named after Abbott Lawrence, a notable American figure. The etymology of the species name rivularis comes from Latin, indicating its preference for small brooks or rivulets.

Aquarium Setup
For housing the Chinese False Gudgeon, a tank of at least 300 litres is recommended, with water parameters within 36-268ppm hardness, pH ranging from 6.0-8.0, and a temperature of 16-24°C. The ideal tank setup should mimic a slow-flowing stream or river, featuring a substrate of rocks, sand, gravel, and boulders. Decorate with driftwood, roots, branches, and sturdy plants like Microsorum and Anubias species attached to the decor.

Behaviour
Due to its environmental requirements and aggressive feeding habits, the Chinese False Gudgeon is unsuitable for community tanks as it may outcompete or intimidate slower and less assertive species during mealtimes. Compatible tankmates are robust cyprinids of similar size such as Dawkinsia, Barilius, Opsarius, along with bottom-dwellers like Garra and Crossocheilus species.

Feeding and Diet
While the species grazes on algae and biofilm, its primary diet comprises invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, offer a variety of meaty foods such as bloodworms, Tubifex, Artemia, prawns, supplemented with high-quality sinking dried products containing vegetable matter like Spirulina.

Reproduction & Dimorphism
Adult male Abbottina Rivularis can be distinguished by their larger dorsal fins compared to females, indicating sexual dimorphism. However, specific information on their breeding and reproduction behavior is not provided in the available data.

Habitat and Distribution
In its native habitat spanning continental China, the Korean peninsula, and southern Japan, the species is primarily found in benthic riverine environments with a preference for shallow, slow-to-moderately flowing, turbid waters. Despite its native range, the Chinese False Gudgeon has been widely introduced and labeled invasive in regions like the Mekong river basin, northern Japan, and Turkmenistan due to contamination of translocated populations meant for food cultivation purposes.