Japan Sea Stickleback
NameJapan Sea Stickleback
Scientific NamePungitius sinensis
Common NamesJapan Sea Stickleback, Chinese Stickleback, Amur Stickleback
FamilyGasterosteidae
OriginEast Asia, Japan Sea, Amur River Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)15
Max Size (Inches)3
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-70
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther robust, cool-water tolerant minnows, Certain darter species
Description
The Japan Sea stickleback is a small, elongated freshwater fish native to East Asia, characterized by its distinctive dorsal spines. Known for its semi-aggressive and territorial nature, especially during breeding, it is a predatory carnivore feeding on small invertebrates. This species requires cool, clean water and is best kept in a species-specific tank or with robust, similarly sized tankmates.
