Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya)

The Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya) is a small, peaceful freshwater fish that brings a pop of crimson to a community aquarium. Ideal for hobbyists starting a tropical setup or expanding a planted tank, it offers approachable care with lively schooling behavior.

• Scientific name: Puntius titteya
• Size: Up to about 4 cm (1.5 inches) in length
• Color & pattern: Males display vivid cherry-red bodies with bright fins; females are paler with a rounder belly
• Behavior & schooling: Peaceful, active schooling fish that prefer to move in small groups
• Tank conditions: Tropical freshwater; temperature 22–28°C (72–82°F), pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard water
• Diet: Omnivore; thrives on quality flake food, micro-pellets, and small live or frozen treats like daphnia or brine shrimp
• Breeding: Egg scatterer; best results with a dedicated spawning setup and plant cover; remove adults after spawning and feed tiny foods to fry
• Tank setup & companions: Planted aquarium with gentle filtration and light to moderate water flow; pairs well with other peaceful, small species in a community tank

With proper care, cherry barbs reveal their brightest color in stress-free, well-planted tanks. Keeping them in small to large groups enhances their natural schooling behavior, creates dynamic movement, and provides a visually engaging centerpiece for a community setup. They’re forgiving of minor parameter fluctuations when you maintain consistent water quality, and their peaceful disposition makes them an excellent choice for mixed-species tanks. A balanced diet not only supports health and growth but also intensifies the iconic red coloration that makes the Cherry Barb a standout among small tropical fish.