Rosy Barb care

Pethia conchonius · Freshwater · Beginner level care

A fast and hardy barb that likes cooler water than most tropical fish.

Smallest tank30 gallons

Adult size4 inches

Temperature64 to 75°F

pH6 to 7.5

GroupA group of 8 or more

TemperamentSemi aggressive

SwimsMiddle of the tank

Lives5 to 6 years

Watch for: Can nip fins and is too active for slow, long finned fish.

Feeding

Twice a day. A small pinch they finish in about 2 minutes, a little more for bigger fish. Flakes, pellets, blanched vegetables.

Nips the fins of slow fish with long fins.

Fish that pass every check with Rosy Barb in a 60 gallon tank: same water, overlapping temperature, nobody gets eaten and no bullies.

Cardinal Tetra: Cardinal Tetra and Rosy Barb need different water temperatures.
Rummynose Tetra: Rummynose Tetra and Rosy Barb need different water temperatures.
Tinfoil Barb: Tinfoil Barb grows big enough to eat Rosy Barb.
Betta (Male): Betta (Male) and Rosy Barb need different water temperatures.
Betta (Female): Betta (Female) and Rosy Barb need different water temperatures.
Pearl Gourami: Pearl Gourami and Rosy Barb need different water temperatures.
Moonlight Gourami: Moonlight Gourami and Rosy Barb need different water temperatures.
German Blue Ram: German Blue Ram and Rosy Barb need different water temperatures.

What size tank does a Rosy Barb need?

At least 30 gallons for a group of 8. Adults grow to about 4 inches, so plan for the adult size, not the size at the store.

What temperature does a Rosy Barb like?

64 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a pH of about 6 to 7.5. A steady temperature matters more than hitting one exact number.

How many Rosy Barb should I keep together?

Keep 8 or more. They feel safe in a group and show better color and behavior.

What do Rosy Barb eat?

Flakes, pellets, blanched vegetables. Feed twice a day: a small pinch they finish in about 2 minutes, a little more for bigger fish.

Checked against these sources on 2026-11-10. When sources disagree we use the safer number.