More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 60 litres / 15.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 3.0cm / 1.18inches |
| Temperature | 18°C / 64.40°F - 24°C / 75.20°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.0 |
General Description
The Pethia Canius, a small fish with a maximum size of 3.0cm, belongs to the family Cyprinidae. This species is characterized by a red body, red dorsal and caudal fins, and yellowish-orange anal fins in live specimens. It is part of a group of closely-related species alongside P. gelius and P. aurea.
Aquarium Setup
Best maintained in a planted aquarium, the Pethia Canius thrives in carefully aquascaped setups. Floating plants, driftwood roots, or branches can be added to diffuse light and create a natural environment. Suitable for a tank of at least 60 liters, this fish prefers slow water flow and should not be added to a biologically immature aquarium due to its susceptibility to water chemistry fluctuations.
Behaviour
Known for its peaceful demeanor, the Pethia Canius is not recommended for community tanks due to its timid nature and small size. It thrives best when kept in groups of 8-10 individuals alongside diminutive species such as Microdevario, Trigonostigma, smaller Danio, Lepidocephalichthys, and freshwater shrimp like Caridina and Neocaridina. Maintaining them in suitable numbers reduces stress, enhances coloration, and promotes natural behaviors, including male displays to attract females.
Feeding and Diet
Presumably a micropredator, the Pethia Canius feeds on small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton. In captivity, they accept a variety of foods, including small live and frozen options like Daphnia and Artemia, along with high-quality flakes and granules. Providing a diverse diet ensures optimal coloration and prepares the fish for breeding.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
A typical egg-scattering free spawner, the Pethia Canius exhibits no parental care. Controlled breeding requires a separate tank with mature water, dim lighting, and substrate for egg collection. Conditioning adults with slightly acidic to neutral pH water and appropriate temperatures stimulates spawning. Females appear rounder when gravid, and fry hatch within 24-36 hours, feeding on infusoria-grade food initially.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to ponds and sluggish bodies of water, the Pethia Canius has been confirmed in collections from Cooch Behar and Nadia districts in West Bengal, northern India. The species' range extends to habitats typical of small cyprinids, where it forages for food and reproduces in suitable conditions.