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:
| Feature | Red Cherry Barb | Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya) |
|---|---|---|
| Native Range | Myanmar | Sri Lanka |
| Size | Up to 2 inches | Up to 1.5 inches |
| Color Intensity | Males are deep red | Males are lighter red |
| Body Shape | Stockier build | Slimmer, more elongated |
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.
