Saltwater Aquarist

Rosy Barb

(Pethia conchonius)

Rosy Barb (Pethia conchonius) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Pethia conchonius
Common Name: Rosy Barb
Species Group: Barb
Tank Type: Community, Coldwater
Care Level: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet Type: Omnivore
Role in Aquarium: Schooling Fish
Max Fish Length: 3.9 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 24 (gallons)
Native Range: Pakistan, India, Nepal and Bangladesh.
Min Temperature: 61°F
Max Temperature: 75°F
Min pH: 6
Max pH: 8
Min GH: 5 dGH
Max GH: 20 dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding: Easy
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The Rosy Barb (Pethia conchonius) is a hardy barb. Males turn rose-red when in color.
  • Widespread from Pakistan through India, Nepal and Bangladesh.
  • Grows to about 3.9 in (10 cm) standard length.
  • One of the hardiest small cyprinids. Long-finned and neon forms exist.

Feeding

  • Omnivorous. Offer quality flakes, including some plant-based food, plus small live and frozen foods.

Habitat

  • A tank with a base of 39 × 12 in (100 × 30 cm).
  • Shows the best color in a planted tank with a dark substrate.
  • Prefers cooler water: 61–75°F (16–24°C), pH 6.0–8.0, GH 5–20.

Fish Care

  • Excellent for beginners and suits unheated tanks in warm rooms. [UNVERIFIED]

Compatibility

  • Generally peaceful. Good with other cyprinids, tetras and livebearers that like similar temperatures.
  • [UNVERIFIED] May nip long fins in small groups.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Active and sociable. [UNVERIFIED] Keep at least 6–8.

Breeding

  • An egg scatterer with no parental care.
  • A separate spawning tank with fine-leaved plants or mesh gives more fry.