Rosy barb

The rosy barb is a hardy freshwater cyprinid (family Cyprinidae) native to South Asia, notably the rivers of northern India and Bangladesh. Breeding males flush a rich rosy-red, especially on the flanks, while females and non-breeding fish are more silvery-gold, and long-finned and color-selected varieties are common. It is a peaceful, very active shoaling fish that should be kept in a group of six or more; small groups can encourage fin-nipping. In a proper shoal males color up strongly and display to one another. A spacious tank with open swimming areas, plants around the edges, and some current suits its energetic nature. As a subtropical species it tolerates cooler water than many tropicals. It is an omnivore that eats flake, pellets, vegetables, and frozen foods. It is easy to breed, being an egg-scattering species, and is well suited to beginners.