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Maximum size : 15 cm
Swamp Barb - Puntius Chola : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Swamp Barb (Puntius chola) is a fantastic addition to any community aquarium due to their peaceful nature. They are a schooling species, and it is best to keep at least six of them together to reduce their nervousness and promote natural behavior. When kept in appropriate numbers, any aggression is typically subdued as the fish focus on maintaining their pecking order. Swamp Barbs are compatible with a variety of peaceful larger fish, and since they are not typically seen as food, they can be combined with many tankmates. With proper care and maintenance, Swamp Barbs are easy to keep. You can use sand or gravel as the substrate, and the addition of rocks, pebbles, driftwood, and aquatic plants like Anubias or Microsorum can make a great naturalistic environment for them. Swamp Barbs have a striking appearance with silvery bodies that have a subtle golden hue, a black mark on the dorsal's second and fifth rays, and a dark blotch at the base of the caudal fin. Additionally, there are usually one or two rows of dark spots visible along their center. For those looking for something different, there is even a long-finned variation of this species.Swamp Barb Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing male and female Swamp Barbs is a relatively simple process. Females typically grow to be slightly larger, are more robust, and exhibit less vibrancy in coloration when compared to males. Conversely, males are known for their striking appearance, showcasing brighter coloration than females, particularly in their orange pelvic and anal fins. In contrast, females do not have the same vivid coloring in these fins.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Puntius Chola |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1822 |
| Other Names | Chola Barb |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | puntius |
| Origins | India Nepal Pakistan Myanmar Sri Lanka Bangladesh Bhutan Thailand |
| Max Size | 15 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | up to 10 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 6.5 |
| GH | 8 - 15 |
| KH | |
| TDS | 36 - 268 |
| ℉ | 68 - 77 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 25 |
