Species profile
Red Cherry Barb
Rohanella titteya
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
4–5 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Domestic red Cherry Barb form. The accepted species is Rohanella titteya; colour intensity does not create a formal variety.
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
Mid bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
0.6
Peaceful social barb. Males may hold small display spaces but serious aggression is unusual when kept in a mixed-sex group with cover.
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
Low
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
Red Cherry Barb, Cherry Barb, Rohanella titteya, Puntius titteya, Barbus titteya
Native range
Captive domestic form of Rohanella titteya; the wild species is endemic to western and south-western Sri Lanka.
Natural habitat
Parent species inhabits shaded slow streams/rivulets with silt, sand and leaf litter. In aquaria provide cover, subdued areas and open swimming room.
Diet & feeding
Omnivore taking detritus, algae, diatoms and small invertebrates. Feed varied small dry foods plus frozen/live items and some vegetable matter.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are slimmer and much deeper red, especially when displaying; females are fuller and paler with a more obvious lateral stripe.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder. Eggs are deposited among fine plants/substrate and adults will eat eggs and fry if given access.