White Cloud

White cloud mountain minnows (Tanichthys albonubes) are hardy and colourful freshwater fish, making them excellent for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. Here’s how to care for them in an aquarium:

Tank Size:

• A minimum tank size of 30 litres is suitable for a small school of 5-6 white cloud mountain minnows.
• These fish are active swimmers, so a longer tank is preferable for ample swimming space.

Water Temperature:

• White clouds are cool-water fish and thrive in temperatures between 16-26°C.
• They can tolerate fluctuations in temperature, making them suitable for unheated tanks or even outdoor ponds in temperate climates.

pH and Water Hardness:

• They prefer a pH range of 6.0 to 8.5, but they do best in slightly alkaline water around 7.0-8.5.
• Water hardness should be between 5-19 dGH. White clouds are quite adaptable to various water conditions, as long as they remain stable.

Filtration and Water Flow:

• Provide a gentle filter with moderate water flow. They enjoy clean, well-oxygenated water but do not require strong currents.
• Regular water changes (around 20% weekly) are recommended to maintain water quality.

Tank Setup:

• Plants and decor: White clouds appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, using live or artificial plants like java fern, anacharis, or hornwort. Driftwood and rocks can provide additional cover and create a more natural environment.
• Lighting: Standard aquarium lighting is sufficient for white clouds. They do not require intense lighting, but plants will benefit from it.

Social Structure:

• White clouds are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. Larger groups will make them feel more secure and enhance their natural schooling behaviour.
• They are peaceful fish and make excellent tank mates for other small, non-aggressive species. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive fish that may prey on them.
• Good tank mates include zebra danios, guppies, platies, and small tetras.

Diet:

• White clouds are omnivores and will readily accept a variety of foods. Offer a balanced diet that includes:
  • High-quality flakes or micro-pellets.
  • Frozen or live foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms.
  • Occasional feedings of vegetable-based foods like spirulina flakes.
• Feed them small amounts 2-3 times per day, ensuring they eat within 2-3 minutes.

Behaviour:

• White clouds are active and peaceful. They are not prone to aggressive behaviour and are ideal for community tanks.
• Males may show off brighter colours and engage in mild displays during breeding, but aggression is minimal.

Breeding:

• White cloud minnows are egg scatterers and can breed in captivity with minimal intervention.
• To breed them, use a separate tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop for the eggs to attach to.
• Remove the adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs, and raise the fry on infusoria or powdered fry food.

With proper care, white cloud mountain minnows can live up to 5 years in captivity, making them a lively and long-lasting addition to a freshwater aquarium. Their adaptability and hardiness make them a great choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists!