Long Fin Meteor Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes)

Common Name

Long Fin White Cloud Mountain Minnow

Origin and Habitat

The species originates from cool, clear streams and spring-fed rivulets in southern China, historically around Baiyun (White Cloud Mountain) in Guangdong. Habitats are shallow, well-oxygenated, and often shaded by vegetation, with fine gravel, sand, cobbles, aquatic plants, and leaf litter. Seasonal rains bring cooler water and fresh flow; dry periods create calmer pools with bright light and rich biofilm.

Temperature and Water Conditions

Preferred range: 64–74 °F (18–23 °C). They tolerate brief cooler dips and should be kept away from consistently warm conditions. Wild waters are soft to moderate with pH near neutral (commonly 6.5–7.5). In aquaria, stability is far more important than exact parameters (except for dedicated breeding projects). Provide clean water, steady oxygenation, gentle to moderate current, and regular partial water changes.

Appearance and Size

The longfin line features extended, flowing fins that flutter in the current. A bright white-to-gold lateral stripe runs from snout to tail, with red-to-orange highlights on dorsal and caudal fins and a pearly body sheen. Males are slimmer and more intensely colored; females are rounder with subtler tones. Adult size: 3–4 cm (1.25–1.5 in).

Diet in the Wild

Micropredator and grazer—feeds on insect larvae, tiny crustaceans, zooplankton, algae, and biofilm.

Feeding in Captivity

Staple: high-quality nano pellet or fine flake. Regularly supplement with live or frozen daphnia, cyclops, and newly hatched brine shrimp. A little spirulina flake supports color and condition. Feed two small portions daily to keep the school active and vibrant.

Behavior and Tank Setup

Exceptionally peaceful, active schoolers. Keep at least 8–10 for best color, confidence, and display behavior.

• Tank size: 15–20 gallons ideal for longfin forms
• Substrate: fine gravel or sand with rounded stones
• Plants: hardy cool-tolerant species (Vallisneria, water sprite, Java moss)
• Flow: gentle to moderate with strong oxygenation

Excellent companions: small danionins, ricefish, hillstream loaches (in cooler setups), and temperate-line Corydoras.

Breeding

Conditioning

Separate sexes for about a week and feed rich live/frozen micro-foods. A slight drop to 66–70 °F (19–21 °C) followed by a cool water change often triggers spawning.

Spawning Setup

Use a separate tank with fine-leaved plants, Java moss, or spawning mops. A mesh or marble layer lets eggs fall out of reach. Ratio: 2 males : 1 female for good fertilization.

Eggs and Fry

Adults show no parental care—remove them immediately after spawning. At 70–72 °F eggs hatch in 36–48 hours; fry become free-swimming a few days later.

First Foods

Start with infusoria or cultured Paramecium → vinegar eels/microworms → newly hatched brine shrimp. Use gentle air-driven filtration, keep pre-filter sponges clean, and perform small daily water changes with matched temperature.

Quick Facts

• Scientific name: Tanichthys albonubes
• Common name: Longfin White Cloud Mountain Minnow
• Origin: southern China cool streams; longfin is a domestic line
• Adult size: 3–4 cm (1.25–1.5 in)
• Temperature: 64–74 °F (18–23 °C)
• Wild pH: near neutral; stability most important in captivity
• Temperament: very peaceful schooler
• Diet: micropredator/grazer; quality prepared + live/frozen foods
• Breeding: egg-scatterer on plants/mops, no parental care

Tropical Fish Co. Notes

Longfin White Clouds bring sparkle and motion to a cool-water planted tank—like tiny kites in a breeze. Our Operations Manager Jonny thinks these are from the best supplier, which is exactly why we picked this line. Keep them cool, clean, and in a real group, and they reward you with nonstop movement and easy, reliable spawning.