Cherry Barb
Puntius titteya
The cherry barb, Puntius titteya, is a small Sri Lankan freshwater fish also commonly placed in the genus Pethia. It comes from shaded lowland streams and forested wetlands, where the water is often slow, planted, and softened by leaf litter. Males can turn a deep cherry red, especially when mature or breeding, while females are usually tan to amber with a dark lateral stripe. Its modest size and calm behavior have made it a long-standing aquarium species.
Most cherry barbs in the aquarium trade are captive-bred, which reduces pressure on wild populations and gives buyers hardier fish. They do best in groups rather than as single specimens, with planted cover, gentle tankmates, and stable water that is not too harsh. Feeding is straightforward with small prepared foods plus frozen, live, or vegetable items. Breeders use pairs or small groups in fine-leaved plants or spawning mops; the adults scatter eggs and may eat them, so fry are usually raised separately on tiny first foods.
