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Eurasian Minnow

Eurasian Minnow

Breed InfoHabitatNutritionHealth

Origin

Europe

Northern Asia

Habitat Size

50-150 Liters

Water Type

Fresh Water

Water Temperature

10º-22ºC

Cost in India

₹80 - ₹150

Size

2 - 3 inches (Small)

Diet

Omnivore

Silver and gold fish with a black eye swims to the right
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 2 Dec 2025

The Eurasian Minnow (Phoxinus phoxinus) is a small, friendly freshwater fish that often swims in groups. It has a slender body, shimmering scales, and is known for being active and lively. It is quite popular for study in labs and also appreciated in cool-water aquariums.

Eurasian Minnow Origin

  1. This fish is native to Europe and parts of Asia, found in rivers, streams, and cold lakes.
  2. Its formal scientific name, Phoxinus phoxinus, was given by Carl Linnaeus in 1758.
  3. Over time, scientists discovered that what was once thought to be one wide-ranging species is actually a group (complex) of closely related species.

Temperament

  1. The Eurasian Minnow is a peaceful and social fish
  2. It swims in schools (groups) rather than alone
  3. It is also quite active and enjoys swimming in flowing water

Eurasian Minnow Compatibility

Lives well with:

  1. Other gentle, small cold-water fish that prefer clean, cool, oxygenated water

Avoid pairing with:

  1. Big, aggressive fish that might chase or eat them, or fish that need very warm water

Eurasian Minnow Price Range

  1. In India, this is not a very common pet fish
  2. Approximate price might range from ₹100 to ₹300 per fish, depending on size, breeder, transport, and availability

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Eurasian Minnow Habitat Requirements

Initial Setup Cost

₹4,000 - ₹12,000

Water Temperature

10º -22ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

6.5 - 7.5

Eurasian Minnow Tank Type

  1. Freshwater (not saltwater or brackish)
  2. Cool water system with good flow and oxygen

Aquarium Size

  1. For a small school (say 6–10 fish), a tank of 60 to 100 litres or more is safer, to allow room to swim

Eurasian Minnow Water Conditions

  1. Temperature: Around 2 °C to 20 °C exist in nature, but inside an aquarium, 10-18 °C may prove safer.
  2. pH: 7.0 to 7.5
  3. Water Hardness: Moderate or a bit hard at GH about 2-10

Environment Needs

  1. Strong or moderate current in parts of the tank to simulate stream flow
  2. Gravel or pebbles at the bottom, hiding places like rocks or driftwood to mimic a natural habitat
  3. Good oxygen supply — strong aeration and water movement
  4. Moderate lighting; plants and shade can help

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Eurasian Minnow Nutritional Guide

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹80 - ₹ 150

Eurasian Minnow Diet Type

  1. Omnivore (eats both animal and plant matter)

Suitable Foods

  1. Small live or frozen foods:
  2. Insect larvae
  3. Tiny crustaceans
  4. Daphnia
  5. Flake food or micro-pellets (small size)
  6. Occasional plant matter or algae bits

Eurasian Minnow Feeding Frequency & Tips

  1. Feed 1 to 2 times a day, small portions
  2. Give only what they can finish in a minute or two, so food doesn’t pollute the tank
  3. A variety of food types so they get good nutrition
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Eurasian Minnow Health & Care

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Fungus

Ammonia poisoning

Bacterial infections

Parasitic infections

Signs of good health

Active

Good apetite

Bright coloration

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Dull coloring

Frequent hiding

Swimming abnormally

Below are common diseases or health problems that Eurasian Minnows may face:

Fungal infections/External fungal growth

When water is dirty or injured, skin appears, and fungus may grow on the fish's surface. You may see cottony patches. The treatment is improving water quality, removing sick fish, and using mild antifungal fish medicines (according to instructions).

Columnaris (bacterial disease)

This causes lesions, ulcers, or grey patches on the skin and fins. If fish have infected ulcers or ragged fins, they may have Columnaris. Treat Columnaris with antibacterial medications. Also, use clean water and low-stress environments. Isolate infected fish from others.

Parasitic infestations (e.g., external parasites like ich or flukes)

Symptoms include flashing (fish rubbing sides), small white spots, or rapid breathing. Use parasite treatment dips or aquarium medicines, and ensure good water conditions. Quarantine new fish before adding them.

Eurasian Minnow General Health Tips

  1. Replace a portion of the tank water each week in order to maintain clean drinking water and lessen bacteria and dirt.
  2. Check daily for signs of fish with traits of hiding, breathing fast, and not eating. Quarantine suspicious fish immediately for close inspection.
  3. Rocks, plants, and driftwood offer hiding places. These additions can help fish feel secure.
  4. Keep the filtration good. Use a filter appropriate for tank size to maintain a clear, non-toxic environment.

Prerequisites for a Fish

Cleanliness

Adequate tank space

Effort & commitment

Enriching Environment

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Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What do Eurasian Minnows eat?

They are omnivores and eat a variety of foods, including high-quality flake food, live or frozen foods, and blanched vegetables.

How often to clean the tank for Eurasian Minnows?

Regular water changes and maintenance are essential to keep the tank clean and the fish healthy.

What are common health issues for Eurasian Minnows?

Common health issues include fin rot, white spot, fungus, ammonia poisoning, parasitic infections, and bacterial infections.