Rosy Barb

The Rosy Barb is native to rivers and streams in northern India and Bangladesh, where water temperatures frequently drop into the mid-teens during winter. This cold-hardiness, combined with brilliant male colouration and an active schooling disposition, makes it one of the most popular temperate barbs worldwide.

Males in prime condition glow with vivid rose-pink to deep red colouration, especially during courtship. Females are olive-gold. The species adapts readily to aquarium conditions and will accept a wide variety of foods.

Best kept in schools of six or more to distribute any mild fin-nipping tendency among group members. Plants should be robust as Rosy Barbs will nibble on soft-leaved vegetation.

Water: 14–22°C, pH 6.0–8.0, GH 4–15; cold-tolerant; no heater needed in temperate homes. Tank: minimum 100 L, robust plants (avoid soft-leaved species), open swimming area. Feeding: omnivore — flake, pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, blanched spinach. Breeding: egg-scatterer; condition with live foods; spawns over fine plants or spawning mops. Compatibility: active but mostly peaceful; keep in groups of 6+; avoid very slow long-finned fish.