The white cloud mountain minnow (Tanichthys albonubes) is a small fish native to Guangdong Province, China and this species is probably restricted to the Pearl River Delta region.  Mature fish reach an adult size of 1.6 inches long.  Mature females are usually have rounder bellies and are often a little larger than the slimmer, more colorful males.

White clouds are exclusively available as captive bred specimens, and there are now several different forms to choose from.  In addition to the standard wild coloration, there is a gold variety, a long fin variety, and a high fin variety.

                               
The white cloud should be maintained in an aquarium of 20 gallons or larger.  Smooth rocks, driftwood (ZM2000) and live or artificial plants may be used, as well as a sandy substrate (CS7538).  These fish look great in a heavily planted tank with a dark substrate and floating plants to diffuse some of the light.

                                  
The white cloud prefers a water temperature of 58°F to 72°F, a pH of 6.0 to 8.0, and a hardness of 5 to 20°H.  Be sure water is clean and well oxygenated for this hardy and adaptable fish.

                                                 
The white cloud is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium.  Good tank mates include tetras, rasboras, danios, cory catfish, otocinclus catfish, and small gouramis, and many other community fish.  White clouds should be kept in schools of at least 8 to 10 individuals to promote schooling behaviors and make these small fish more comfortable.

The white cloud is easy to feed in the aquarium and will readily accept just about any appropriately sized food item such as flakes (AL165) and frozen brine shrimp (SF6777).   For maximum color, growth, and health these fish will look their best when given probiotics (AL169) in addition to a balanced diet.