Species profile
Gold Barb
Barbodes semifasciolatus
Peaceful
Easy care
100 L minimum aquarium
5–10 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Captive golden form of the Chinese Barb. Hardy, social and better suited to moderate/cool tropical temperatures than the legacy 24–28 °C range suggested.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
18–25 °C
pH
6–8
GH
Not yet documented
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
1
Peaceful social barb. Keep a substantial group; well-fed fish are generally community-suitable, though soft plants may be grazed.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
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
4–6 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
100 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Barbodes semifasciolatus
Alternative names
Gold Barb, Golden Barb, Schubert's Barb, Chinese Barb, Barbodes semifasciolatus
Native range
Captive domestic colour form; parent species native to East and South-east Asia.
Natural habitat
Parent species inhabits freshwater streams and rivers. Provide open swimming room, plant/wood cover and moderate current.
Diet & feeding
Omnivore feeding on worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter. Include vegetable content as well as varied invertebrate foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males tend to be smaller/slimmer and become more orange-red in breeding condition; females are larger and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder. Spawns among fine plants; adults will consume eggs if not separated.