Long-fin Rosy Barb Care Guide
The Long-fin Rosy Barb is a selectively bred form of Pethia conchonius, a hardy subtropical shoaling cyprinid from southern Asia.
Overview
The Long-fin Rosy Barb is a selectively bred long-finned variety of Pethia conchonius (Hamilton, 1822), a hardy subtropical cyprinid from southern Asia. Several ornamental forms exist, including veil-tail and color strains. The long-finned form swims somewhat more slowly and should be protected from fin-nippers.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Pethia
- Scientific name: Pethia conchonius var. Longfin
- Base species: Pethia conchonius (Hamilton, 1822)
- Note: the long-finned form is a captive-bred ornamental variety, not a separate species
Habitat
The base species is extensively distributed across southern Asia, from Pakistan and Afghanistan through India, Nepal and Bangladesh. It occurs in flowing streams, tributaries, lakes, ponds and swamps, where natural water temperatures are relatively cool.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 18-24 °C (64-75 °F) — a cooler, subtropical species
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 5-18 °dGH
- School size: at least 6 individuals (8-10 recommended)
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Diet
A generalised omnivore that consumes worms, insects, invertebrates and plant material in the wild. In the aquarium it benefits from regular small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, Daphnia and Artemia, plus quality flakes and granules with plant content.
Compatibility
An active, generally peaceful schooling fish occupying the middle level. It is suitable for mixed community setups with tetras, livebearers, rainbowfishes, catfishes and loaches. The long-finned form should be kept away from tiger barbs and other vigorous fin-nippers.
Breeding
An egg-scattering free spawner with no parental care. Eggs hatch within roughly 24-48 hours; fry become free-swimming about a day later and initially require very small foods such as infusoria.