Cherry Barb Care Sheet
Puntius titteya
A peaceful, shy barb species with stunning red coloration. Males turn deep cherry red when in breeding condition. Unlike tiger barbs, cherry barbs are gentle community fish.
73–81°F
6–7
20 gallons
4–6 years
1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
6+ (schooling fish — groups bring out their best color)
Easy. Egg scatterers — scatter eggs among fine-leaved plants. Males display brilliant red coloring during courtship. Remove adults after spawning.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivore — flakes, micro pellets, frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms. Not picky eaters.
Natural Habitat
Native to shaded forest streams in Sri Lanka. Prefer densely planted tanks with subdued lighting.
Care Tips
Unlike tiger barbs, cherry barbs are peaceful and won't nip fins
Males display deepest red when they have females to impress
Provide dense planting and subdued lighting — they're naturally shy
Hardy and disease-resistant — great beginner schooling fish
Endangered in the wild — captive breeding helps conservation