Red Cherry Barb | Single

The Red Cherry Barb (Pethia padamya), also known as the Burmese Cherry Barb, is a vibrant freshwater fish known for its striking red coloration and peaceful temperament. Originally found in Myanmar's slow-moving rivers and streams, these hardy fish are ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Their shoaling nature and active swimming habits make them a lively addition to community tanks.

Key Characteristics of Red Cherry Barbs:

• Size: Grows up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length.
• Color: Males are bright cherry red, especially during spawning, while females are paler with a more subtle reddish hue.
• Lifespan: Typically 4–6 years with proper care.
• Behavior: Peaceful and social, thriving in groups of 6 or more.
• Activity: Active swimmers, often exploring all levels of the tank.

Water Parameters for Red Cherry Barbs:

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F), suitable for tropical aquariums.
• pH: 6.0–7.5, with slightly acidic to neutral water being ideal.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (5–15 dGH).
• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons for a small group, with larger tanks preferred for larger schools.

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to mimic their natural riverbed environment.
• Plants: Live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and Vallisneria provide hiding spots and simulate their natural habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting enhances their vibrant colors.
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate water flow mimics the rivers and streams they inhabit.
• Decor: Rocks, driftwood, and caves create hiding spots and encourage natural behavior.

Diet:

Red Cherry Barbs are omnivorous and require a varied diet for optimal health:

• Flakes & Pellets: High-quality tropical fish flakes or small pellets as a staple.
• Live/Frozen Foods: Daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms for added protein.
• Vegetable-Based Foods: Spirulina flakes or finely chopped blanched vegetables like zucchini and spinach.

Tankmates for Red Cherry Barbs:

These peaceful fish are excellent for community tanks:

• Compatible Tankmates:
  • Other peaceful barbs like Gold Barbs or Rosy Barbs.
  • Tetras, rasboras, guppies, and mollies.
  • Bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish and loaches.
  • Peaceful invertebrates like shrimp and snails.
• Avoid Aggressive Tankmates:
  • Large, territorial fish like cichlids.
  • Fin-nipping species like tiger barbs, unless in larger schools.

Breeding Red Cherry Barbs:

Breeding these fish in captivity is relatively easy:

• Breeding Tank: Use a separate tank with soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop.
• Conditioning: Feed the breeding pair with live or frozen foods to enhance spawning readiness.
• Spawning Behavior: Males display intensified red coloration to attract females. Eggs are scattered among plants.
• Egg Care: Remove adults after spawning, as they may eat the eggs.
• Fry Care: Feed fry with infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to baby brine shrimp or crushed flakes as they grow.

Differences Between Red Cherry Barbs and Other Barbs:

Care Considerations:

• Shoaling: Keeping them in groups of at least 6 reduces stress and encourages natural behaviors.
• Color Enhancement: A varied diet and well-maintained water conditions enhance their red coloration.
• Disease Prevention: Regular water changes and good filtration help prevent common issues like ich.

Why Choose Red Cherry Barbs?

• Visual Appeal: Their deep red coloration is striking and stands out in planted aquariums.
• Ease of Care: Hardy and adaptable, making them perfect for beginners.
• Peaceful Nature: Compatible with a variety of tankmates in a community setup.
• Active Lifestyle: Their shoaling and swimming patterns add life to any aquarium.

Conclusion:

Red Cherry Barbs are a beautiful and lively addition to freshwater tanks. Their vibrant colors, social behavior, and adaptability make them a top choice for aquarists seeking a low-maintenance yet eye-catching fish. With proper care, they will thrive and bring energy and charm to any aquarium.