Gold barb
Barbodes semifasciolatus · Cyprinidae
Also known as Chinese barb, Schuberti barb
Beginner
A hardy golden barb that thrives in unheated tanks and eats almost anything.
In short: A gold barb needs at least 110 L (29 US gal), water at 18–26 °C (64–79 °F) and pH 6–8. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 18–26 °C (64–79 °F)
- pH
- 6–8
- Adult size
- 7 cm (2.8 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 18–26 °C (64–79 °F)
- pH
- 6–8
- Hardness
- 5–20 dGH
- Lifespan
- 4–6 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — flake, pellets, greens, frozen foods.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Southern China and Vietnam
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Slow streams and ponds
- Natural conditions
- Wide tolerance; happiest cool.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- White cloud mountain minnowDaniosLoaches
- Avoid
- Discus-warm tanksDelicate long fins
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Beginner
- Sexing
- Males are redder along the belly.
- Notes
- Prolific egg scatterer.
- Common ailments
- IchOverfeeding obesity
Will it fit your tank?
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