Rosy Barb (Pethia conchonius), Bred in SA

The Rosy Barb is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant coloration, active nature, and peaceful temperament. Native to South Asia, these fish thrive in community aquariums and are ideal for beginner and experienced aquarists alike.

Quick Facts:

• Scientific Name: Pethia conchonius
• Common Name: Rosy Barb
• Origin: India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Afghanistan
• Size: 6–8 cm
• Lifespan: 5–6 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling fish
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Appearance

• Males exhibit a deep pinkish-red body with orange hues, while females have a more subdued silver or gold tone.
• During breeding, males develop even more intense red coloring.
• Some varieties, such as long-finned Rosy Barbs, have elegant flowing fins.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 80 litres for a small group; 120+ litres for larger schools.
• Temperature: 18–25°C (can tolerate cooler temperatures).
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH
• Substrate & Decorations:
  • Fine gravel or sand.
  • Hardy live plants (like Anubias, Java Fern, or Vallisneria).
  • Rocks and driftwood for natural structure.

Behavior & Compatibility

• Schooling Fish: Best kept in groups of 5 or more to prevent stress and fin-nipping.
• Active Swimmers: Need open swimming areas with moderate water flow.
• Compatible Tank Mates:
  • Peaceful community fish like tetras, danios, rasboras, gouramis, and corydoras.
  • Avoid slow-moving fish with long fins, like bettas or fancy guppies.

Diet

Rosy Barbs are omnivores and require a varied diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or small pellets.
• Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia.
• Vegetables: Blanched spinach, zucchini, or algae wafers.

Breeding

• Egg Scatterers: They lay eggs among plants with no parental care.
• Spawning Conditions:
  • Warmer water (24–26°C).
  • Fine-leaved plants like Java Moss for egg deposition.
  • A separate breeding tank is best to prevent eggs from being eaten.
• Egg Hatching: Eggs hatch in 24–48 hours, and fry can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food.

Care Tips

Keep them in a group of 5+ to reduce aggression.
Ensure good filtration and regular water changes to maintain water quality.
Provide both open swimming space and hiding spots for a natural environment.

Why Keep Rosy Barbs?

Hardy and beginner-friendly.
Active and peaceful, great for community tanks.
Can thrive in unheated aquariums in moderate climates.

Let me know if you’d like recommendations for tank setups or more care details!