Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – sinking pellets, earthworms, bloodworms, invertebrates; bottom scavenger
Aquarium species profile
Tench
Tinca tinca · Europe and Western Asia (widespread — UK, Europe, Siberia)
Minimum tank500 gal pond
Adult size28"
Care levelEasy
TemperamentPeaceful
Temperature39–79°F
pH range6.5–8.0
Compatible tank mates
Koi, Goldfish, Orfe, other pond fish
Tank mates to avoid
Very small fish (may eat), tropical fish
Care notes
Called the 'doctor fish' — believed to secrete healing mucus that benefits other pond fish. Hardy bottom-dweller and scavenger. Olive-green with small scales and distinctive red eyes. Nocturnal feeder. Excellent pond clean-up crew. Golden Tench variety available. Survives very low oxygen and brackish conditions.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.