Quick Stats: Cherry Barb
Family: Cyprinidae
Range: Indonesia, Sumatra, Borneo
Size: Up to 2 inches
Diet: Omnivore
Tank Set-up: Freshwater: Rocks, plants, driftwood
Tank Conditions: 74-79°F; pH 6.0-7.0; dH 4-10
Minimum Tank Capacity: 30 gallons
Light: Low
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: No specific level
Care Level: Easy
Reproduction: Egg Layer
The Cherry Barb is a more slender fish when compared to the other Barbs. The main body is silver/black with a golden, horizontal stripe following the lateral line. During spawning, the male will turn bright cherry red, which explains the given name. It may also come in an albino form. Tank raised specimens are currently available for purchase.
It prefers a well-planted tank of at least 30 gallons with soft, slightly acidic water. Rocks and driftwood can be added to the aquarium, but leave plenty of space for swimming. The Cherry Barb is a very timid fish that should be housed with fish of the same temperament.
It is best, when trying to breed the Cherry Barb, to house a number of Barbs in the same aquarium until they pair off. After a pair has developed, the female will lay the eggs and the male will follow behind to fertilize. The fry will be free-swimming after about 5 days. Feed the fry newly hatched brine shrimp until lar ...
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