European Bitterling
NameEuropean Bitterling
Scientific NameRhodeus amarus
Common NamesEuropean Bitterling, Common Bitterling, Bitterling
FamilyCyprinidae
OriginEurope, Western Asia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)3.5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)60-75
pH Range6.5-8.0
Compatible SpeciesWhite Cloud Mountain Minnow, Danios, Other small temperate cyprinids, Loaches
Description
The European Bitterling is a small, peaceful freshwater fish characterized by its silvery body and an iridescent green-blue stripe. This temperate species is renowned for its unique breeding behavior, where females deposit eggs inside living freshwater mussels. They are schooling fish that appreciate planted aquariums with open swimming areas.
