Cherry barb
Puntius titteya · Cyprinidae
Also known as Puntius titteya
Beginner
Small, peaceful barb; males flush deep red in a planted, shaded tank.
In short: A cherry barb needs at least 60 L (16 US gal), water at 22–28 °C (72–82 °F) and pH 6–7.5. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
- Minimum tank
- 60 L (16 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Adult size
- 5 cm (2 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 60 L (16 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness
- 2–15 dGH
- Lifespan
- 4–6 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — flake, micro pellets, frozen daphnia.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Sri Lanka
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Shaded lowland streams over silt
- Natural conditions
- Soft, slightly acidic, warm, slow water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- All levels
- Good tank mates
- Harlequin rasboraCorydorasHoney gouramiOtocinclus
- Avoid
- Tiger barbLarge cichlids
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males are red and slimmer; females tan and rounder.
- Notes
- Egg scatterer among fine plants; adults predate the eggs.
- Common ailments
- IchVelvet
Will it fit your tank?
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