Species profile
Cherry Barb
Rohanella titteya
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
3–5 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small peaceful Sri Lankan barb; maintain a mixed group with plant cover and open swimming space.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–27 °C
pH
6–8
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.6
Social and generally peaceful. Males display to one another but group keeping spreads attention and produces more natural behaviour.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Rohanella titteya
Alternative names
Cherry Barb, Puntius titteya, Pethia titteya
Native range
Endemic to Sri Lanka.
Natural habitat
Shaded lowland streams and associated forest waters with leaf litter, submerged branches and marginal vegetation.
Diet & feeding
Generalist micropredatory/omnivorous diet of small invertebrates, plant material and suitable prepared foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are slimmer and become much deeper red; females are fuller-bodied and usually paler.
Breeding
Egg-scattering cyprinid; adults may eat eggs and fry, so dense fine plants or spawning media are useful for deliberate breeding.