Gold White Cloud Mountain Minnow - Tanichthys albonubes

The White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes) is extinct in the wild but has been a popular aquarium fish for many years. It exists now only in fish farms and hobbyists' homes. The wild type "White Cloud" is beige to light brown with a gold stripe that runs horizontally down the flank. The belly is dark and the fins are red. The fins may also be tipped in white. This "gold" variety has a mroe golden overall color. Unlike most other small aquarium fish, these fish actually thrive in cooler waters and are ideal for unheated community aquariums.

White Clouds are hardy fish, and can be used as "starter fish" for new aquariums. They are schooling fish that should be kept in groups. They are peaceful and can be kept with most other community species like danios, small tetras and rasboras. They are very active swimmers and are constantly on the move.

These fish prefer aquariums with plenty plants and ornamentation to explore, but also need plenty of open space to swim. They can be fed commercial flakes, granules and small pellets as a staple diet, with occasional feedings of meaty frozen or freeze dried treats such as bloodworms, plankton, mysis or brine shrimp. They prefer to be kept in groups of six or more to school and feel secure.