
Rosy Barb
Copper-rose scales and a rear flank spot.
Ordinary short-fin males have deep flanks, reflective scales and a rear dark spot. Females and non-display fish may be much less red.
- Adult length
- Up to 10 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
- Water temperature
- 16–24 °C
- Lifespan
- 5–7 years
- pH
- 6–8
- Hardness
- 5–20 dGH
- Natural habitat
- Inhabits lakes and fast-flowing hill streams.
Gold, neon and long-fin forms are the same species.
Appearance and identification
Systomus pyropterus is a synonym.
Same-species behaviour
Males display in groups, but they do not always school continuously.
Space requirements
A 100 × 30 cm base and at least 8–10 fish. Plan adult swimming space, cover and stable water quality together.
Diet and feeding
Vary small prepared, live or frozen foods with plant content; grazing does not replace feeding.
Compatibility limits
Check companion size, activity and cooler conditions, and watch competition.
Aquarium environment
Plant cover and dark substrate suit the display.
Sources
researcharchive.calacademy.org ↗ 2026-10-22
researcharchive.calacademy.org ↗ 2026-10-22
www.aqualog.de ↗ 2026-10-22
www.fishbase.se ↗ 2026-10-25
www.seriouslyfish.com ↗ 2026-10-22