Golden Barb

Description

The Golden Barb (Pethia gelius), also known as the Golden Dwarf Barb, is a small and peaceful freshwater fish native to the slow-moving rivers, ponds, and flooded fields of India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Known for its shimmering golden-yellow body with subtle black markings, this species adds a vibrant touch to aquariums while maintaining a calm and social nature.
Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Golden Barbs inhabit soft, slightly acidic waters with dense vegetation, where they school together for safety and forage for small invertebrates, algae, and detritus. They are peaceful schooling fish that thrive in well-established community tanks.
Aquarium Care
In aquariums, the Golden Barb thrives in a well-planted tank with soft substrate, open swimming areas, and moderate water flow. They should be kept in groups of at least six to encourage natural schooling behavior and reduce stress. Their gentle nature makes them excellent tankmates for other small, non-aggressive species, such as tetras, Corydoras, rasboras, and small gouramis.
Size and Suitability
Growing to about 5 cm (2 inches), the Golden Barb is ideal for small to medium-sized aquariums. Its vibrant golden coloration, active schooling behavior, and hardy nature make it a fantastic choice for aquarists of all experience levels.