Rosy barb

Rosy barb friends

The Rosy barb (Pethia conchonius) is a species of tropical fish in the family Cyprinidae. It is native to the rivers and lakes of South Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. The Rosy barb is a popular species in the aquarium trade due to its vibrant coloration and relatively peaceful nature.

Description

The Rosy barb is a medium-sized barb that can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length, although they are typically smaller in captivity. They have a deep, laterally compressed body with a slightly arched back. The coloration of the Rosy barb can vary, but they are generally characterized by a rosy-pink hue, which becomes more pronounced in males during the breeding season. Females tend to be less colorful, with a more subdued, silvery appearance.

Habitat

In the wild, Rosy barbs inhabit clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers with a sandy or gravel substrate. They are also found in ponds and lakes with abundant vegetation. The water in their natural habitat is typically soft to moderately hard, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and a temperature range of 64-77°F (18-25°C).

Behavior

Rosy barbs are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least five individuals in an aquarium. They are generally peaceful but can become fin nippers if kept in too small a group or in an overcrowded tank. They are active swimmers and require ample space to move around. Rosy barbs are omnivorous and will accept a wide variety of foods, including flake food, live food, and vegetable matter.

Breeding

Breeding Rosy barbs in captivity is relatively straightforward. They are egg scatterers and do not exhibit parental care. To breed them, a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop is recommended. The water should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a temperature of around 75-80°F (24-27°C). After spawning, the adults should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs will hatch in about 24-36 hours, and the fry can be fed infusoria or finely crushed flake food until they are large enough to accept larger foods.

Aquarium Care

Rosy barbs are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They should be kept in a well-filtered tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. Regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality. They can be kept with other peaceful community fish but should not be housed with slow-moving or long-finned species that may be prone to fin nipping.

Related Pages

• Barb (fish)
• Cyprinidae
• Aquarium
• Tropical fish