Rosy Barb

The Rosy Barb, scientifically known as Pethia conchonius, is a hardy, colorful species of barb native to slow-moving rivers, streams, and ponds in South Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. It is well known in the aquarium hobby for its vibrant coloration, active schooling behavior, and adaptability, making it a favorite for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Adult Rosy Barbs typically reach about 2.5 to 4 inches (6 to 10 cm) in length, with males generally more intensely colored than females. Males display a striking rosy-pink to deep red hue, especially during breeding, while females are more golden or silvery with a subtle pink blush. Both sexes have a streamlined body, forked tail, and may display faint black markings at the base of the dorsal fin and along the lateral line.

A tank of at least 30 gallons is recommended for a group of Rosy Barbs. These fish are highly social and should be kept in groups of six or more to minimize fin nipping and encourage natural schooling behavior. The aquarium should feature a sandy or fine gravel substrate, live or artificial plants for cover, driftwood, and open swimming areas. Dense plantings and floating plants help bring out their color and reduce stress.

Water parameters for the Rosy Barb should include a temperature of 64 to 75°F (18 to 24°C), a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. They are tolerant of a wide range of conditions but thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water with regular partial water changes and gentle filtration.

Feeding the Rosy Barb is straightforward, as they are omnivorous and accept most foods. Offer a varied diet of high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. They will also readily eat vegetable matter, so occasional blanched spinach, zucchini, or spirulina-based foods are beneficial for their health and color.

Rosy Barbs are peaceful but energetic, making them suitable for community tanks with similarly sized, non-aggressive species such as other barbs, tetras, danios, rainbowfish, and Corydoras. Avoid keeping them with long-finned or slow-moving fish, as they may nip fins if understocked or stressed.

Breeding the Rosy Barb is relatively easy. They are egg-scattering fish, and spawning is usually triggered by a rise in temperature and the presence of fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. After spawning, adults should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. Fry can be raised on infusoria or powdered foods before graduating to baby brine shrimp.

Pethia conchonius (Rosy Barb) is a lively, durable, and colorful species that brings activity and beauty to community and planted aquariums.