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Dwarf Barb
Separate shoulder and tail-peduncle spots on a tiny, timid barb.
Ordinary silver-gold adults carry two vertically oriented dark flank blotches and a small anterior dorsal-base mark. A faint mark below the rear dorsal base varies or may be absent.
- Adult length
- Up to 3 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
- Water temperature
- 21–26 °C
- pH
- 6–7
- Hardness
- 3–12 dGH
- Native range
- Asia: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
- Natural habitat
- Inhabits sluggish rivers, streams, ponds and swamps, often over deep mud or silt with dense seasonal growths of plants and algae.
Its tiny size and shyness limit community choices.
Appearance and identification
Several Pethia share two dark spots, so spots alone do not identify the species. Maximum about 3 cm SL.
Same-species behaviour
Groups reduce insecurity and support displays.
Space requirements
A 60 × 30 cm base and at least 8–10 fish. Provide plant refuge, small open lanes and quiet feeding space.
Diet and feeding
Vary tiny prepared foods with small live or frozen prey rather than relying on leftovers.
Compatibility limits
Prefer a species tank or very small quiet companions and prevent food competition or predation.
Aquarium environment
Plants, dark substrate and floating cover offer refuge. Keep water stable and aerated.
Similar and related fish
