Rosy Bitterling (Rhodeus ocellatus) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 60-75°F. A small, peaceful coldwater-to-cool schooling fish with a pink flush on breeding males. It does well without a heater in a planted tank, but it breeds only with a freshwater mussel, which is a specialist keeping project.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Rhodeus ocellatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Acheilognathidae |
| Origin | East Asia |
| Adult size | 2-3 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 60-75°F |
| pH | 7.0-8.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, males may spar |
| Social behavior | Schooling, keep 6+ |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: micro pellets, flakes, small frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 3-5 years |
Quick tips
- Keep a group of six or more.
- Does not need a heater in most homes; avoid very warm water.
- Breeding requires a live freshwater mussel; do not add one casually.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi