Gold Barb (Puntius semifasciolatus) – “Cute Gold Barb” (~2–3″ / ~5–7 cm)

Description

The Gold Barb is a beloved freshwater fish known for its shimmering gold body and peaceful nature. Originally a selectively bred variant of the wild green Chinese barb, it is now widely recognized for its flashy coloration and suitability for beginner aquarists. Adults typically reach around 2.5–3 inches (6–7 cm), with a lifespan of 4–6 years in well-maintained tanks 

Care Instructions

• Tank Size & Setup:

  • Minimum 20–30 gallons (~75–115 L) for a small school of 5–6 fish; longer tanks preferred for active schooling behavior 

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 64–75 °F (18–24 °C); tolerates cooler setups 

  • pH: 6.0–8.0; Hardness: Up to ~10 dGH Social Behavior:

  • Highly social schooling fish—always keep in groups of at least 5–6, ideally 10+ for best behavior and coloration .

• Diet:

  • Omnivorous—accepts flakes, pellets, frozen/live foods (e.g., bloodworms, daphnia), and occasional veggies

• Tankmates:

  • Peaceful in nature; best housed with similarly sized active/shoaling fish like rasboras, danios, or corydoras. Avoid slow or long-finned species to reduce fin-nipping risks 

• Breeding:

  • Easy breeders—egg-scattering species. Provide spawning mops or fine-leaved plants and remove adults post-spawning to prevent egg predation