Gold Barb
Puntius
semifasciolatus
Max. size
7cm / 2.8inches
pH range 6 – 8
dH range 5-19
Temp 18–24°
/64.5–75°F
Care
Moderate
Common names- Gold Finned Barb, Golden
Barb, China Barb
The Gold Barb is a popular fish amongst
aquarium keepers. Living between four and six years they originate from the sub-tropical parts of South East Asia
and is exclusively native to China, Laos and Vietnam although it has now been introduced to other
countries
The Bright colours of the Gold Barb and
their active personality add charm to any aquarium. This coupled with their ease of care makes the Gold Barb
an ideal fish for beginners and experts alike.
Gold Barb are shoaling fish and should
ideally be kept in groups of at least six. Living up to six years in age they are docile fish that make a
good addition to a community tank when paired with fish with similar personalities and care
needs.
It is known by several different names,
most commonly referred to in the USA as the China barb.
The Gold Barb belongs to the minnow
family, and is a medium long barb. Its body has a complete lateral line and the last simple dorsal ray is serrated.
It has a pair of barbels located at the corners of the mouth on the upper jaw. The female tends to be duller than
the male and bulkier. During the breeding period, the male golden barb's belly will change colour to a vivid
orange.
They are mid to bottom level fish and need a tank of around fifteen gallons or
more to be kept happily.
They are very active fish and need plenty
of open space with plenty of plants at the back and sides of the aquarium as well as a strong current to mimic
their natural conditions .
Wild Gold Barbs are omnivorous and have a
mixed diet. In captivity they will accept a wide range of food. You can use a high quality tropical flake
food and supplement it with live worms, and small pieces of boiled vegetables.
The Gold Barb will breed readily and may
spawn several times a year with spawning being triggered by early morning sun. They scatter their eggs and
the young will be eaten by mature fish unless you take measures to prevent this.
Read about the Tiger Barb next
photo -
Wikipedia
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