The Golden Barb (Barbodes semifasciolatus), also known as the Chinese Barb, is a peaceful and hardy freshwater fish popular among aquarium enthusiasts. It is a selectively bred variant of the wild Chinese Barb, featuring a golden-yellow body with hints of green.
Basic Information:
• Maximum Size: 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• Native From: Originally found in China, Vietnam, Laos, and Taiwan
• Growth Rate: They grow steadily and can reach adult size within 6-12 months
• Life Span: 5-7 years with proper care
• Diet: Omnivorous – they eat a variety of plant matter, flakes, pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
Breeding & Tank Setup:
• Breeding Season: No fixed season; they breed readily in warm water (75-80°F or 24-27°C)
• Breeding Behavior: Egg scatterers; females lay eggs among plants, and males fertilize them. Parents should be removed after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
Best Tank Mates:
Golden Barbs are peaceful and do well in community tanks. Ideal tank mates include:
• Other Golden Barbs (keep in groups of 6 or more to prevent fin-nipping)
• Zebra Danios
• Cherry Barbs
• Rosy Barbs
• Corydoras Catfish
• Gouramis (Dwarf Gouramis, Honey Gouramis)
• Loaches (Yo-Yo Loach, Kuhli Loach)
Avoid slow-moving, long-finned fish like Angelfish and Betta fish, as Golden Barbs may nip at their fins.
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