Fin's Fish Guide
The Red barb (Pethia conchonius) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The rosy barb is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from South Asia. The species has a deep, silvery body that in courting males colours up bright rosy-red, with a dark spot near the tail base. It inhabits lakes and fast-flowing hill streams and is one of the hardiest, most adaptable barbs. It lives in schools and feeds as an omnivore on insects, worms, small crustaceans, algae and plant matter. It is a very popular aquarium fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red barb?
The Red barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. The courting male turns bright pink-red; hardy, very popular aquarium barb.
Where does the Red barb live?
The Red barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South Asia; lakes and fast-flowing hill streams.
How big does the Red barb get?
The Red barb grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Red barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Red barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Red barb edible?
The Red barb is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Red barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pethia
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Red barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.