The Cherry Barb is found in heavily shaded streams and rivers in the Kelani to Nilwala basins of Sri Lanka. Feral populations of Cherry Barbs have also been found in Colombia and Mexico. They prefer areas of slow moving, shallow water with a bottom of silt and plenty of branches and leaf litter. In nature, this barb is an omnivore and feeds on diatoms, algae, invertebrates, and detritus. Cherry Barbs are very hardy little fish. They are great eaters and get along with most tankmates. Their water requirements are fairly easy to meet with regular partial changes. Provided with proper care, these little beauties make a great choice for the beginning fish keeper. Since they are omnivorous the Cherry Barb will generally eat all kinds of live, fresh, and flake foods. To keep a good balance, give them a high quality flake food every day. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen) or blood worms as a treat. Several small feedings a day are ideal, and at least one feeding a day is absolutely necessary. A general rule of thumb when offering food several times a day is to offer only what they can consume in 3 minutes or less at each feeding. When offering food just once a day, provide what they can eat in about 5 minutes. Cherry Barbs will swim in all parts of the tank, but especially like to take cover in planted areas. These very active fish will also need stretches of open areas for swimming. A small school will need at least a 40 litre aquarium. Provide good filtration and do regular water changes. These fish will do best and are most effectively displayed in tanks that simulate their natural habitat. They will appreciate an aquarium with lots of dense vegetation and floating plants where they can seek cover. Provide a dark substrate and an open area in the centre for swimming.

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The Cherry Barb is found in heavily shaded streams and rivers in the Kelani to Nilwala basins of Sri Lanka. Feral populations of Cherry Barbs have also been found in Colombia and Mexico. They prefer areas of slow moving, shallow water with a bottom of silt and plenty of branches and leaf litter. In nature, this barb is an omnivore and feeds on diatoms, algae, invertebrates, and detritus. Cherry Barbs are very hardy little fish. They are great eaters and get along with most tankmates. Their water requirements are fairly easy to meet with regular partial changes. Provided with proper care, these little beauties make a great choice for the beginning fish keeper. Since they are omnivorous the Cherry Barb will generally eat all kinds of live, fresh, and flake foods. To keep a good balance, give them a high quality flake food every day. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen) or blood worms as a treat. Several small feedings a day are ideal, and at least one feeding a day is absolutely necessary. A general rule of thumb when offering food several times a day is to offer only what they can consume in 3 minutes or less at each feeding. When offering food just once a day, provide what they can eat in about 5 minutes. Cherry Barbs will swim in all parts of the tank, but especially like to take cover in planted areas. These very active fish will also need stretches of open areas for swimming. A small school will need at least a 40 litre aquarium. Provide good filtration and do regular water changes. These fish will do best and are most effectively displayed in tanks that simulate their natural habitat. They will appreciate an aquarium with lots of dense vegetation and floating plants where they can seek cover. Provide a dark substrate and an open area in the centre for swimming.

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Appearance Tiger Barbs have an iconic look that even novice fish-keepers will instantly recognize. The body of the fish is quite wide. It’s tallest at the middle point and tapers down to a triangular-shaped snout. These fish are also quite colorful and have a very distinct pattern. The base color of Tiger Barbs is usually golden yellow. Some also have subtle rose gold tint. On top of that base color are several stripes. Care Tiger Barb care isn’t too difficult and can be handled by aquarists without much experience (assuming you stick to the recommendations in this guide). Otherwise, they wouldn’t be as widespread as they are! In general, these fish are relatively hardy and can adapt to simple setups as long as you cover the basics. That said, there are some aspects of their care that’ll require a bit of special attention. Despite their small size and beautiful looks, their strong personalities can be a handful! Here are the main care recommendations you need to know. Tank Size The minimum tank size for a small group of Tiger Barbs should be at least 20 gallons. However, we recommend going with a 30-gallon tank if you can. As we mentioned earlier, these fish are avid swimmers. The more room they have, the better. Plus, ample room to swim may help stave off aggressive behavior. Water Parameters In the wild, you can find Tiger Barbs inhabiting lakes, streams, and swamps that are lined with trees. Thanks to the decaying plant matter in the water, conditions tend to be more acidic. For the best results, you need to mimic their natural environment as closely as possible. That includes getting the water conditions just right. Luckily, the Tiger Barb can tolerate a generous range of conditions. As long as you stick within the following ranges, your fish should have no problem staying healthy. Water temperature: 68°F to 82°F degrees (aim for around 74°F if possible) pH levels: 6.0 to 8.0 (a slightly acidic 6.5 is best) Water hardness: 4 to 10 dKH To ensure that the aquarium has the proper water parameters you should invest in a reliable and accurate test kit. This will help you have confidence in the readings you’re getting, allowing you to make the right adjustments when necessary.

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Origin and Distribution The ruby barb originates in Sri Lanka, where it was once plentiful in the forest streams in the upper elevations of the Kelani and Niwala river basins. This native habitat is composed of dense vegetation and slow-moving waters, which are colder than many tropical areas. The water in these streams is soft and acidic, and the river beds are composed of sand or fine gravel.  Unfortunately, populations have greatly diminished due to over-catching by those selling these fish for export in the aquarium trade. Rapid deforestation has also eliminated much of the original habitat of these beautiful fish. At one point, they were on the brink of extinction but are currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Only with proper conservation methods will they remain as a viable population in the wild. As of 2020, the export of wild-caught ruby barbs from Sri Lanka is prohibited. All specimens sold in the aquarium trade are commercially bred, either in Sri Lanka or in a number of other countries that commercially breed aquarium fish. This commercial breeding has resulted in the creation of a variety of new colors and fin morphs compared with the wild fish. Colors and Markings Possessing a pointed head, high back, and deep body, the ruby barb is similar in body type to other banded barbs, such as the tiger barb. Three wide black bands run vertically through the body. In juvenile fish, the body is a pale yellow to yellow-gray. As the fish matures, the head becomes purple-red in color. In males, the entire body assumes this deep red color once they attain breeding age. Both sexes will pale in color when they are stressed, frightened, or are suffering from a disease or poor care. It is quite common for specimens in pet shops to appear washed out, then regain their bright coloration when taken to a quieter environment in a home aquarium. This species does not have barbels, which are feelers near the mouth or nasal cavity, like other barbs. Family Cyprinidae Origin Sri Lanka Social Peaceful Tank Level Bottom Minimum Tank Size 30 gallon Diet Filamentous algae and detritus Breeding Egg-scatterer Care Easy pH 6.0 to 6.5 Hardness 5 to 12 dGH Temperature 72 to 79 F (22 to 26 C)

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 Distribution Apparently endemic to western central Sumatra, Indonesia, but the full extent of its distribution is unclear. The few recent records that exist pertain to lower basins of the Aek Sibundung, Aek Sumuran, and Aek Garoga rivers in Sumatera Utara (North Sumatra) province, with the Batang Gadis drainage and associated National Park possibly representing the northern limit of its range (D. Lumbantobing, pers. comm.). Type locality is ‘Lake Meninju, Sumatra, Indonesia’, which corresponds to the crater lake Danau Maninjau in Sumatera Barat (West Sumatra) province. Maximum Standard Length 40 – 45 mm. Water Conditions Temperature: 18 – 25 °C pH: 5.5 – 7.5 Hardness: 36 – 215 ppm

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The Cherry Barb is a popular and attractive freshwater aquarium fish that is known for its bright and vibrant red coloration. It is a member of the Barb family, which is known for its active and energetic species. Cherry Barbs are native to Sri Lanka and can be found in slow-moving streams and shallow ponds. They are relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner aquarists. These fish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, frozen or live foods, and even vegetables. In terms of appearance, Cherry Barbs are known for their bright red coloration, which is more pronounced in males. They have a streamlined and sleek body shape and can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length. Females are generally less colorful and have a more subdued red coloration. Cherry Barbs are generally peaceful and can be kept in groups of six or more. They are social and active, and will often swim and play together in a hierarchy based on size and dominance. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and a temperature range of 73-81°F (23-27°C). It's important to maintain good water quality and provide plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas in the tank. In terms of tank setup, Cherry Barbs prefer planted tanks with open swimming areas. They are active swimmers and require plenty of swimming space, so a minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group. They can be kept with a range of peaceful community fish, but should not be kept with slow-moving or long-finned fish, as they can be a bit nippy. Overall, Cherry Barbs are a popular and visually striking species of freshwater aquarium fish that are relatively easy to care for and can add a unique and playful element to a community aquarium.

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The Cherry Barb is found in heavily shaded streams and rivers in the Kelani to Nilwala basins of Sri Lanka. Feral populations of Cherry Barbs have also been found in Colombia and Mexico. They prefer areas of slow moving, shallow water with a bottom of silt and plenty of branches and leaf litter. In nature, this barb is an omnivore and feeds on diatoms, algae, invertebrates, and detritus. Cherry Barbs are very hardy little fish. They are great eaters and get along with most tankmates. Their water requirements are fairly easy to meet with regular partial changes. Provided with proper care, these little beauties make a great choice for the beginning fish keeper. Since they are omnivorous the Cherry Barb will generally eat all kinds of live, fresh, and flake foods. To keep a good balance, give them a high quality flake food every day. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen) or blood worms as a treat. Several small feedings a day are ideal, and at least one feeding a day is absolutely necessary. A general rule of thumb when offering food several times a day is to offer only what they can consume in 3 minutes or less at each feeding. When offering food just once a day, provide what they can eat in about 5 minutes. Cherry Barbs will swim in all parts of the tank, but especially like to take cover in planted areas. These very active fish will also need stretches of open areas for swimming. A small school will need at least a 40 litre aquarium. Provide good filtration and do regular water changes. These fish will do best and are most effectively displayed in tanks that simulate their natural habitat. They will appreciate an aquarium with lots of dense vegetation and floating plants where they can seek cover. Provide a dark substrate and an open area in the centre for swimming.

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Appearance Tiger Barbs have an iconic look that even novice fish-keepers will instantly recognize. The body of the fish is quite wide. It’s tallest at the middle point and tapers down to a triangular-shaped snout. These fish are also quite colorful and have a very distinct pattern. The base color of Tiger Barbs is usually golden yellow. Some also have subtle rose gold tint. On top of that base color are several stripes. Care Tiger Barb care isn’t too difficult and can be handled by aquarists without much experience (assuming you stick to the recommendations in this guide). Otherwise, they wouldn’t be as widespread as they are! In general, these fish are relatively hardy and can adapt to simple setups as long as you cover the basics. That said, there are some aspects of their care that’ll require a bit of special attention. Despite their small size and beautiful looks, their strong personalities can be a handful! Here are the main care recommendations you need to know. Tank Size The minimum tank size for a small group of Tiger Barbs should be at least 20 gallons. However, we recommend going with a 30-gallon tank if you can. As we mentioned earlier, these fish are avid swimmers. The more room they have, the better. Plus, ample room to swim may help stave off aggressive behavior. Water Parameters In the wild, you can find Tiger Barbs inhabiting lakes, streams, and swamps that are lined with trees. Thanks to the decaying plant matter in the water, conditions tend to be more acidic. For the best results, you need to mimic their natural environment as closely as possible. That includes getting the water conditions just right. Luckily, the Tiger Barb can tolerate a generous range of conditions. As long as you stick within the following ranges, your fish should have no problem staying healthy. Water temperature: 68°F to 82°F degrees (aim for around 74°F if possible) pH levels: 6.0 to 8.0 (a slightly acidic 6.5 is best) Water hardness: 4 to 10 dKH To ensure that the aquarium has the proper water parameters you should invest in a reliable and accurate test kit. This will help you have confidence in the readings you’re getting, allowing you to make the right adjustments when necessary.

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Appearance Tiger Barbs have an iconic look that even novice fish-keepers will instantly recognize. The body of the fish is quite wide. It’s tallest at the middle point and tapers down to a triangular-shaped snout. These fish are also quite colorful and have a very distinct pattern. The base color of Tiger Barbs is usually golden yellow. Some also have subtle rose gold tint. On top of that base color are several stripes. Care Tiger Barb care isn’t too difficult and can be handled by aquarists without much experience (assuming you stick to the recommendations in this guide). Otherwise, they wouldn’t be as widespread as they are! In general, these fish are relatively hardy and can adapt to simple setups as long as you cover the basics. That said, there are some aspects of their care that’ll require a bit of special attention. Despite their small size and beautiful looks, their strong personalities can be a handful! Here are the main care recommendations you need to know. Tank Size The minimum tank size for a small group of Tiger Barbs should be at least 20 gallons. However, we recommend going with a 30-gallon tank if you can. As we mentioned earlier, these fish are avid swimmers. The more room they have, the better. Plus, ample room to swim may help stave off aggressive behavior. Water Parameters In the wild, you can find Tiger Barbs inhabiting lakes, streams, and swamps that are lined with trees. Thanks to the decaying plant matter in the water, conditions tend to be more acidic. For the best results, you need to mimic their natural environment as closely as possible. That includes getting the water conditions just right. Luckily, the Tiger Barb can tolerate a generous range of conditions. As long as you stick within the following ranges, your fish should have no problem staying healthy. Water temperature: 68°F to 82°F degrees (aim for around 74°F if possible) pH levels: 6.0 to 8.0 (a slightly acidic 6.5 is best) Water hardness: 4 to 10 dKH To ensure that the aquarium has the proper water parameters you should invest in a reliable and accurate test kit. This will help you have confidence in the readings you’re getting, allowing you to make the right adjustments when necessary.

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Rosy Barbs are a popular and active freshwater aquarium fish that are known for their striking colors and hardiness. They are a part of the Barb family, which is known for its active and energetic species. Rosy Barbs are native to Southern Asia and can be found in streams, rivers, and ponds in countries such as India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. They are relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner aquarists. These fish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, frozen or live foods, and even vegetables. In terms of appearance, Rosy Barbs are known for their bright and vibrant colors, which range from light pink to deep red. They have a streamlined and sleek body shape, and can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. Males are generally more colorful than females, with longer fins and a brighter red coloration. Rosy Barbs are generally peaceful and can be kept in groups of six or more. They are social and active, and will often swim and play together in a hierarchy based on size and dominance. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C). It's important to maintain good water quality and provide plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas in the tank. In terms of tank setup, Rosy Barbs prefer planted tanks with open swimming areas. They are active swimmers and require plenty of swimming space, so a minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended. They can be kept with a range of peaceful community fish, but should not be kept with slow-moving or long-finned fish, as they can be a bit nippy. Overall, Rosy Barbs are a popular and visually striking species of freshwater aquarium fish that are relatively easy to care for and can add a unique and playful element to a community aquarium. Thank you to CK Yeo for the image. Please advise if you like it removed.

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Appearance Tiger Barbs have an iconic look that even novice fish-keepers will instantly recognize. The body of the fish is quite wide. It’s tallest at the middle point and tapers down to a triangular-shaped snout. These fish are also quite colorful and have a very distinct pattern. The base color of Tiger Barbs is usually golden yellow. Some also have subtle rose gold tint. On top of that base color are several stripes. Care Tiger Barb care isn’t too difficult and can be handled by aquarists without much experience (assuming you stick to the recommendations in this guide). Otherwise, they wouldn’t be as widespread as they are! In general, these fish are relatively hardy and can adapt to simple setups as long as you cover the basics. That said, there are some aspects of their care that’ll require a bit of special attention. Despite their small size and beautiful looks, their strong personalities can be a handful! Here are the main care recommendations you need to know. Tank Size The minimum tank size for a small group of Tiger Barbs should be at least 20 gallons. However, we recommend going with a 30-gallon tank if you can. As we mentioned earlier, these fish are avid swimmers. The more room they have, the better. Plus, ample room to swim may help stave off aggressive behavior. Water Parameters In the wild, you can find Tiger Barbs inhabiting lakes, streams, and swamps that are lined with trees. Thanks to the decaying plant matter in the water, conditions tend to be more acidic. For the best results, you need to mimic their natural environment as closely as possible. That includes getting the water conditions just right. Luckily, the Tiger Barb can tolerate a generous range of conditions. As long as you stick within the following ranges, your fish should have no problem staying healthy. Water temperature: 68°F to 82°F degrees (aim for around 74°F if possible) pH levels: 6.0 to 8.0 (a slightly acidic 6.5 is best) Water hardness: 4 to 10 dKH To ensure that the aquarium has the proper water parameters you should invest in a reliable and accurate test kit. This will help you have confidence in the readings you’re getting, allowing you to make the right adjustments when necessary.

Read more less