Rosy Barb – Puntius conchonius

Rosy Barbs (Puntius conchonius) are hardy fish, and can be kept successfully by beginners. Rosy Barbs are usually a gold metallic color, with males having metallic orange to red flanks. They sport a black spot near the base of the tail, and the fins are generally reddish. Males are generally more colorful than females but the bright colors will not usually develop without the presence of females.

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 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, (more…)