Gold Barb – Puntius sachsii

Gold Barbs (Puntius sachsii) have orange-gold bodies and reddish fins. They usually have dark irregular spots on the body, and a dark irregular bar at the base of the tail. They are one of the more peaceful, community-friendly barbs available.

Barbs are popular aquarium fish from the Cyprinidae family, one of the largest in freshwater that also includes other popular fish like Danios and Tetras. Most of the barbs available to aquarists are from the genus Puntius although several others are also found, including Barbus, Garra, Barbonymus, Barilius and others.

The large Puntius genus ranges from tiny 1 in. fish to larger species that reach a foot or more in length. Most of those sold for aquariums reach around 3-5 inches in length. This group includes some of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish: Tiger Barbs, Cherry Barbs, Gold Barbs, Rosy Barbs and others. This genus found throughout Asia. These fish are schooling and should be kept in groups of at least five or more fish. Keeping fewer fish will increase their individual aggressiveness, leading to their notorious reputation as semi-aggressive fin-nippers.

Barbs are generally not picky eaters. They will accept a wide variety of fr(more…)