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White Cloud Mountain Minnow

White Cloud Mountain Minnow

Origin

🇨🇳

China

Habitat Size

20-50Liters

Water Type

Fresh Water

Water Temperature

16º-22ºC

Cost in India

₹50 - ₹100

Size

1 - 2 inches (Nano)

Diet

Omnivore

Silver fish with red stripe swims right over light colored pebbles
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 2 Dec 2025

The White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes) is perhaps the most peaceful and inactive of freshwater fish. With its iridescent silver color, red fins, and flowing movement, it is often called the "Poor Man's Neon Tetra."

They are robust, hardy, and perform well in a vast spectrum of conditions — perfect for community tanks and even cold tanks. They appear delicate, but are robust swimmers that will survive through a wide spectrum of conditions if cared for properly.

Origin of the White Cloud Mountain Minnow

The White Cloud Mountain Minnow originates from mountain streams close to Guangzhou, China. The White Cloud Mountain Minnow was first found in the 1930s on the White Cloud Mountain — where it got its name from. Streams are well-oxygenated, clear, and cold, and that is why the fish does well at lower temperatures than tropical fish.

Temperament of the White Cloud Mountain Minnow

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are active, schooling, and peaceful fish. They are not typically aggressive and will school in a group of six or more. To observe a small school swim as one is serene and lovely to behold.

They inhabit the middle to upper regions of the aquarium, flying around with vitality and curiosity.

Compatibility of the White Cloud Mountain Minnow with Other Fish

Because of their peaceful temperament, they co-exist harmoniously with:

  1. Zebra Danios
  2. Guppies
  3. Cherry Barbs
  4. Harlequin Rasboras
  5. Corydoras

Avoid fin-nipping or fin-tipping breeds like Tiger Barbs or larger Cichlids which will harass or stress them out.

White Cloud Mountain Minnow Price Range

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are extremely cheap and normally found in pet shops. They cost mostly ₹50–₹100 ($1–$2) per unit, depending on fin type (standard, golden, or long-finned varieties) and size.

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Habitat Requirements of the White Cloud Mountain Minnow

Initial Setup Cost

₹3,000 - ₹6,000

Water Temperature

16º -22ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

6 - 8

Tank Setup

  1. Tank Type: Freshwater
  2. Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons for small schooling
  3. Substrate: Fine sand or gravel
  4. Decor: Live or artificial plants, driftwood, and open swimming area
  5. Lighting: Moderate to strong

Water Conditions

  1. Temperature: 16–22°C (60–72°F)
  2. pH Level: 6.0–8.0
  3. Water Hardness: 5–19 dGH

Environmental Requirements

  1. White Cloud Mountain Minnows like cooler, well-aerated water. Give them a soft filter to maintain soft water and steady flow. Add plants and rocks so they can hide and have space to school freely.

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

White Cloud Mountain Minnow Nutrition

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹50 - ₹ 100

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are omnivorous and like variety in food.

Supplement them with:

  1. High-quality flakes or micro-pellets
  2. Live or frozen food such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms
  3. Finely chopped green leafy vegetables like zucchini or spinach

Tips on feeding:

  1. Feed sparingly twice a day
  2. Do not overfeed them since they have small stomachs
  3. Alternate to keep them vivid in color
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Health & Care of the White Cloud Mountain Minnow

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Fungus

Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)

Ammonia poisoning

Swim bladder inflammation

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Dull coloring

Swimming abnormally

Tattered fins

Common Issues of White Cloud Mountain Minnow

Velvet Disease (Oodinium)

Parasite causes disease, which manifests as gold dust on fish scales.

  1. Symptom: Rusty or yellow fine dusting and rubbing against surfaces.
  2. Treatment: Lower the tank light, increase the temperature by a notch, and administer copper-based medication.

Columnaris (Cotton Mouth Disease)

Bacterial infection from dirty water.

  1. Symptom: White cotton-like patches along the mouth or fins.
  2. Treatment: Isolate ill fish and administer antibacterial treatment.

Fin Rot

Disease from low quality of water or bacterial infection.

  1. Symptom: Frayed or rotting fins.
  2. Treatment: Change the water periodically and administer antibacterial treatments.

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

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 water conditions do White Cloud Mountain Minnows prefer?

They prefer freshwater with a temperature between 16°C to 22°C and a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0.

Can White Cloud Mountain Minnows be kept with other fish?

Yes, they are peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish.

What do White Cloud Mountain Minnows eat?

They are omnivores and eat a mix of high-quality flake food, live or frozen foods, and occasional vegetables.