Overview
The White Cloud Mountain minnow is a small, hardy schooling fish with a glowing stripe down its side and pink-tinged fins. It got the nickname poor man's neon tetra because it offers bright color and lively movement without the fussy care or higher price of a true neon. A shoal of them shimmering through plants is one of the prettiest sights in a small tank.
This minnow is special because it likes cooler water than most tropical fish. It comes from cool mountain streams in southern China, and it is comfortable at room temperature, so it often does not need a heater at all. It is peaceful, easy to feed, and forgiving of beginner mistakes, which makes it one of the best first fish for an unheated or lightly heated aquarium.
| Care level | Easy |
| Adult size | 1.5 in (4 cm) |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful and lively |
| Min. tank | 10 gal (38 L) |
| Temperature | 64-72 F (18-22 C) |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
| Diet | Micro flakes, small pellets, and tiny live foods |
| Schooling | Groups of 6 or more |
The cool-water fish
Unlike most aquarium fish, White Clouds prefer cooler water and thrive at room temperature. In many homes they can live comfortably without a heater, which makes them unusual and handy.
Better in a shoal
These minnows are schooling fish. Kept in a group of six or more they feel safe, show brighter colors, and constantly display to one another, which is when they look their best.
Where it lives
It comes from cool, clear mountain streams in the White Cloud Mountain area of southern China, though wild populations became rare and most in the hobby are captive-bred.
A rescued fish
For years the species was thought to be extinct in the wild before small populations were found again. Thanks to easy captive breeding, it stayed common in home aquariums the whole time.
Keeping it happy
Give it a planted tank, gentle flow, and a group of its own kind. It is one of the most forgiving fish around, tolerating a wide range of conditions as long as the water stays clean.
Fun facts
- It is nicknamed the poor man's neon tetra for its bright color and easy care.
- It prefers cooler water and often needs no heater at all.
- It comes from mountain streams in southern China.
- It was once believed extinct in the wild but survived in aquariums.
- It is one of the hardiest and most beginner-friendly fish available.
Frequently asked questions
Do White Cloud minnows need a heater?
Usually not. They like cooler water and are comfortable at normal room temperature, which makes them great for unheated tanks in most homes.
How many should I keep?
At least six. They are schooling fish that feel safer and look far more colorful when kept in a group.
Are they good for beginners?
They are one of the best beginner fish there is. They are hardy, peaceful, easy to feed, and forgiving of small mistakes.
What can live with them?
Other small, peaceful, cool-tolerant fish and shrimp make good tankmates. Avoid large or aggressive fish that might bully or eat them.
