Tanichthys micagemmae (Vietnamese Cardinal) Bred in SA

Tanichthys micagemmae is a beautiful and peaceful freshwater fish closely related to the well-known White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes), but rarer and even more vibrant. Native to the cool, clear streams of central Vietnam, this species features shimmering scales, metallic stripes, and striking red-orange fins — making it a fantastic choice for nano and planted aquariums.

🔍 Quick Facts

Scientific Name: Tanichthys micagemmae

Common Names: Vietnamese White Cloud, Sparkling White Cloud, Micagemmae Minnow

Origin: Central Vietnam

Size: 2.0–2.5 cm

Lifespan: 3–5 years

Temperament: Peaceful, social

Difficulty Level: Easy

🏡 Tank Requirements

Tank Size: 30+ litres (bigger is better for schools)

Temperature: 18–24 °C (prefers the cooler side)

pH Range: 6.5–7.5

Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH

Flow: Moderate – replicates clear stream conditions

Décor & Substrate:

Dark sand or fine gravel substrate

Dense live planting (Hornwort, Rotala, Java Fern, Moss)

Driftwood, smooth rocks, and open swimming areas

🐟 Behavior & Tank Mates

Schooling fish – keep in groups of 8+ for best behavior and color

Very peaceful and active midwater swimmers

Excellent for nano tanks and community setups

✅ Great Tank Mates:

Other small peaceful fish (Chili Rasboras, Ember Tetras, Danios)

Small Corydoras, Otocinclus

Shrimp (Neocaridina, Amano), Snails

🚫 Avoid:

Aggressive or fin-nipping species

Large fish that may eat them

🍽️ Diet

Tanichthys micagemmae are micro-predators and omnivores:

High-quality micro pellets or flakes

Live or frozen foods (baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms)

Occasional vegetable matter (spirulina flakes or blanched spinach)

Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily to avoid overfeeding.

🐣 Breeding

Egg scatterers – no parental care

Males display brighter colors and court females in dense plants

Use moss or fine-leaved plants as spawning medium

Fry hatch in ~48–72 hours and feed on infusoria and powdered fry food

Use a separate breeding tank to maximise survival

✅ Why Keep Tanichthys micagemmae?

✔️ Dazzling nano fish with shimmering color
✔️ Peaceful and easy to care for
✔️ Active and social – ideal for planted tanks
✔️ Cooler temperature makes them suitable for unheated aquariums