Species profile
Rosy Barb
Pethia conchonius
Peaceful
Easy care
120 L minimum aquarium
6–10 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Lively subtropical barb that is better kept cooler than the average tropical community. Needs a large shoal, flow and open swimming space.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
15–24 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
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
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.4
Usually peaceful in a good-sized group, but small groups may become nervous or nippy. Avoid long-finned slow tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
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
120 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pethia conchonius
Alternative names
Puntius conchonius
Native range
South Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal and Bangladesh.
Natural habitat
Associated with cooler flowing waters and hill-stream environments. Good oxygenation, current and robust planting work well.
Diet & feeding
Feed a varied omnivore diet of quality flakes/pellets, vegetable/algal foods and small frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males develop much stronger rosy/red colour and dark fin edging; females are larger and fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Egg scatterer with no parental care. Adults may eat eggs and should be separated from a dedicated breeding setup.