Barb (most species)
Cherry barbs (Puntius titteya) are small freshwater fish native to Sri Lanka, known for their vivid colors and peaceful behavior. They belong to the family Cyprinidae, which includes other popular aquarium species like goldfish and danios.
| Scientific Name | Puntius titteya |
| Origins | Sri Lanka, introduced in Mexico & Columbia |
| Adult Size | 1.5“ to 2” |
| Lifespan | 4 to 6 years |
| Temperment | Peaceful, Egglayer, Ominvore, 5 or more |
| IUCN Status | VU : Vulnerable |
Behaviour
The cherry barb is a schooling fish and is best kept in groups of five or more individuals, though the schools are often less discrete than those of other barbs. Within these schools, there will most likely be a hierarchy. There should be a ratio of at least two females to one male. The male will constantly harass the females to breed, and if there are multiple females, each can escape the attention of the male for a time.
Tank Setup
Cherry Barbs are best kept in an aquarium with a soft current (strong currents will cause them stress), with fairly typical tropical aquarium conditions. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate as they are known to graze the bottom of the tank on occasion for food. The tank should have abundant plant material, but the fish also needs open space to swim. It tends to hide and will often withdraw under the cover of plants. The younger male is generally peaceful, but a mature male can be aggressive when breeding.
Diet & Feeding
Cherry barbs are omnivores. Offer them a varied diet of high-quality flake food, pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Breeding
Cherry Barbs will eat their own eggs and young, so its best to take steps to protects their eggs if you are a serious breeder. Maintain consistent water parameters and have a good mixture of male and females in a school of five or more.
| Temperature | 73°F to 81°F |
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| Hardness | Soft - Medium |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Tank Zone | Middle |
| Substrate | Sand or Fine Gravel |
| Heating Required | Yes |
| Lighting Requirements | Low |
| Plant Friendly | Yes |
| Min Tank Size | 15 gallons |
Tank Mates
Any fish that have calm temperaments will do well with Cherry Barbs.
Species Variations
Use caution if you are considering Tiger Barbs as they are the most aggressive of the species and can cause problems with other tank mates.
There are several varieties of Barb in the aquarium trade.
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