Cherry Barb

The cherry barb is a small cyprinid in the family Cyprinidae, native to shaded forest streams of Sri Lanka. Males live up to the name with a deep cherry-red body when in good condition or breeding, while females are a more subdued brownish-tan with a darker lateral stripe. It is a peaceful, somewhat shy shoaling fish that should be kept in a group to bring out its confidence and color. Males display to one another and to females with intensified red hues. It is a hardy, adaptable fish ideal for planted community aquariums, appreciating some cover, subdued lighting, and calm tank mates. It accepts flakes, small pellets, and frozen foods. It is an egg-scatterer that breeds easily among dense plants, though the parents will eat eggs if not separated. Its ease of care makes it a longtime beginner favorite.