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Maximum size : 7.5 cm
Chinese Barb - Barbodes semifasciolatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Chinese Barb is the wild form of the captive-bred Gold Barb; however, this particular Barb is rarely seen in the aquarium trade because most people prefer the popular Gold form. In addition to being very colourful and getting along with most tank mates, Chinese Barbs are hardy, peaceful fish that can handle a wide range of water parameters, making them ideal fish for beginner aquarists. However, if given a chance, these Barbs will nibble at the plants in planted aquariums, so it is best to avoid aquariums with a lot of plant life. The shoaling nature of these fish makes it better to keep them in groups of at least six individuals. However, a larger group of these fish will make for a stunning display, and you'll be able to observe the fascinating behaviour of these Barbs. As the Chinese Barb prefers temperatures at the lower end of the tropical range, make sure other tankmates have the exact requirements. There should be a good oxygenation level and moderate current in the water, and it will need to be well-filtered. There are short barbels at the corners of the mouth of the Chinese Barb, which has a sloped back. Additionally, these Barbs have metallic green bodies with a brassy sheen underneath. Finally, the belly is whitish, turning a reddish-bronze colour when males are mating.Chinese Barb Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
It is pretty simple to differentiate between the male and female Chinese Barb. Females are duller and have rounder stomachs than males, while males have brighter colours, streamlined bodies, and smaller bodies than females. In addition, sexually mature males will develop red colouration in the lower part of their bodies.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Barbodes semifasciolatus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1868 |
| Other Names | Green Barb |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Barbodes |
| Origins | Vietnam Taiwan China Laos |
| Max Size | 7.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | 3 - 5 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 1 - 10 |
| KH | |
| TDS | 36 - 357 |
| ℉ | 64 - 75 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 17.8 - 23.9 |
Natural habitat
The Chinese Barb is native to Vietnam, Taiwan, southwestern China and northern Laos in the Red River Drainage in Southeast Asia, where they occur in fresh waters at depths of 5 metres or less. Their habitats usually have dense aquatic or riparian vegetation and form schools close to the substrate. They seem to prefer still waters and slower-flowing tributaries such as swamps and irrigation channels.How to breed the Chinese Barb
The Chinese Barb is moderately easy to breed. You will need a separate breeding tank that is densely planted with fine-leaved plants such as java moss, and you can also use Spawning mops or a mesh on the base of the aquarium to allow the eggs to fall through, where the parents can't reach them. It would be better if you made sure there were lots of hiding spots for the female, as the male can be quite intrusive during the spawning process. The Lights in the tank should be dimly lit, the water should be soft, the PH should be relatively low, and the filter needs to be slow flowing. You can attempt to spawn the fish in pairs, selecting the healthiest female and the most vibrant male, or in groups with half a dozen of each sex, condition them with live foods for several days prior for the utmost success. Once spawning has taken place and the eggs have been laid, they should hatch a couple of days later. You should feed the fry infusoria-grade foods for the first few days until they are large enough to accept microworms, baby brine shrimp or similar. Sexing It is pretty simple to differentiate between the male and female Chinese Barb. Females are duller and have rounder stomachs than males, while males have brighter colours, streamlined bodies, and smaller bodies than females. In addition, sexually mature males will develop red colouration in the lower part of their bodies.Diet & feeding
In the home aquarium, the Chinese Barb will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements. Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish. It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages. This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.Other Barbs you maybe interested in
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