WHITE CLOUD-24KT GOLD

Introduction • Common Name: 24K Gold White Cloud Mountain Minnow • Native Habitat: Native to the streams and rivers of Southern China, particularly the White Cloud Mountains in Guangdong Province. Physical Characteristics • Appearance: The 24K Gold White Cloud features a stunning golden-yellow body, a distinct trait that sets it apart from other variants of Tanichthys albonubes. Its body is sleek, with a noticeable dorsal fin and a small, forked tail. The fish also exhibits a subtle iridescent sheen that enhances its golden hue under light. • Size: Typically reaches about 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) in length. • Lifespan: With proper care, these fish can live up to 5 years in captivity. Habitat Requirements • Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small group of White Cloud Minnows, though larger tanks provide better conditions. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: Prefers cooler water temperatures ranging from 64°F to 72°F (18°C to 22°C). o pH: Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. o Water Hardness: Prefers soft to moderately hard water (2-15 dGH). • Aquascaping: These minnows enjoy well-planted tanks with open swimming areas. Incorporating live plants, rocks, and driftwood can mimic their natural habitat, providing shelter and hiding spots. Diet • Primary Diet: Omnivorous, readily accepting high-quality flake food or small pellets. • Supplemental Feeding: They thrive on a varied diet that includes live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, which helps enhance their coloration. • Feeding Frequency: Feed 1-2 times a day, offering only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes. Behavior and Compatibility • Temperament: Generally peaceful and sociable, the 24K Gold White Cloud is best kept in groups of 6 or more, as this helps to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior. • Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with other small, peaceful fish like other minnows, guppies, and small rasboras. • Incompatibilities: Avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive species that may bully or eat them. Care Level • Difficulty: Considered an excellent choice for beginners due to their hardiness and adaptability. They can tolerate a range of water conditions, but stable water parameters are essential for optimal health. • Maintenance: Regular water changes of about 20-30% weekly are recommended, along with good filtration to maintain clean and stable water conditions. Breeding • Reproduction: The 24K Gold White Cloud is a spawning species and can be bred in a home aquarium. • Breeding Setup: A separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops is ideal. Soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-7.0) and a temperature of about 68°F (20°C) are recommended for breeding. • Breeding Behavior: Males will chase females during courtship, prompting them to scatter eggs among the plants. After spawning, it’s best to remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. • Fry Care: Eggs typically hatch in 24-36 hours, and fry should be fed infusoria or specialized fry food until they are large enough to accept finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp. Health and Disease • Common Issues: Generally resilient but can be susceptible to diseases like ich, fin rot, and other common freshwater ailments if kept in poor conditions. • Prevention: Maintain stable water parameters, perform regular water changes, and provide a balanced diet to help prevent stress and disease. Conservation and Sustainability • Wild Population: The 24K Gold variant is selectively bred in captivity, reducing pressure on wild populations. • Conservation Status: Not listed as endangered or threatened, as they are primarily available through captive breeding programs. Conclusion The 24K Gold White Cloud Mountain Minnow is a visually striking addition to any community aquarium, offering a splash of color and active behavior. Their hardiness and peaceful nature make them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists alike. With proper care, diet, and tank conditions, these minnows can thrive and provide a captivating display in your aquarium.