Bitterling Fish Facts, Size, Weight, Care, Diet, Aquarium

The European bitterling (Rhodeus amarus) is a temperate freshwater fish that belongs to the subfamily Acheilognathinae of the family Cyprinidae. It is found in temperate freshwaters throughout Europe. Its origins can be traced back to Europe, specifically to the Rhone River basin in France and the Neva River in Russia. It was first characterized by Marcus Elieser Bloch as Cyprinus amarus in 1782 and was named Rhodeus sericeus amarus in scientific journals. 

It is commonly referred to simply as "the bitterling" in its native range, where it is the sole species of the genus Rhodeus, and occasionally in the scientific literature as well, but this is technically incorrect, being a remnant from the time when the European bitterling was combined with its Siberian relative, the Amur bitterling, to form R. sericeus. The term "bitterling" can relate to any Acheilognathus or Rhodeus species.


    Bitterling Fish Facts

    This is an excellent aquarium fish; it is harmonious, energetic, and sturdy. They have a long, slender body and a pointed nose. They reach a decent size and have a lovely bluish-green shimmering sheen as well as rose-colored fins. When males are in the breeding season, their bellies develop a bright orange sheen and their fins develop a bright red hue.

    Bitterlings breed in an intriguing and unique manner. The eggs of the female Bitterling are laid in the gills of a freshwater mussel. During the breeding season, the male exhibits dazzling colors, and his sperm is absorbed into the mussel's gill cavity to fertilize the eggs. The eggs will then reside in the mussel's gill cavity for up to 4 weeks, following which the tiny Bitterlings will arise fully capable of surviving on their own.

    Bitterling Fish Facts, Size, Weight, Care, Diet, Aquarium

    Bitterling Fish Size & Weight

    The bitterling fish is approximately 5-6 cm in length. Few members can grow up to 11 cm in length and weigh approximately 10 g.

    Bitterling Fish Diet

    Bitterlings consume algae, invertebrates, crustaceans, and a variety of organic and inorganic materials. The European bitterling, Rhodeus amarus, is a tiny cyprinid fish with a complex life cycle. Bitterlings eat a variety of foods, including dry flakes and pellets, and they particularly enjoy live or frozen foods.

    Bitterling Fish Care

    Bitterlings are not selective when it comes to the requirements of their environment. They can withstand a wide range of temperatures, pH levels, and general hardiness. The following are the requirements in which you should keep your Bitterlings.

    • Range of temperature: 13°C to 22°C.
    • Range of PH: 7.0—7.5; 
    • General Hardness: 100—200 ppm  

    Bitterling Fish Aquarium

    Despite the fact that it can tolerate a wide range of water variables, it enjoys a pH that is closer to neutral. It will flourish in an aquarium with plenty of filtration and medium to high water flow. Because this lively fish is prone to jump on occasion, a tight tank lid is advised. It will readily consume the majority of high-quality dry foods, but it should also be provided with meaty live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods to supplement its diet.

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