Cherry Barb

Puntius titteya

Also known as: Cherry barb, Puntius titteya

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–27°C
• pH: 6–8
• Hardness: 36–357 ppm

Care Summary

One of the more underrated community fish: peaceful, hardy, and visually striking once males develop their full colour. Often dismissed because of the aggressive reputation of other barb species (particularly tiger barbs), but cherry barbs are entirely different. Schools loosely in the middle of the water column. Best colour develops in densely planted tanks with subdued lighting and slightly soft water. Captive-bred specimens are widely available and far hardier than wild-caught individuals. A genuine recommendation for beginner community tanks looking for something slightly different from the usual tetra-and-livebearer mix.

Tankmates

A peaceful schooling species often confused with its aggressive cousin the tiger barb; they are completely different fish in temperament. Cherry barbs are excellent community fish that get along with most peaceful species. Best in groups of at least 6 to display proper schooling behaviour and full colour. Males develop deep cherry-red breeding colouration when comfortable and well-fed, particularly when kept with females. Tolerates a wide range of water conditions, making them genuinely beginner-friendly.

Compatible with

• Bronze Corydoras
• Harlequin Rasbora
• Neon Tetra
• Ember Tetra
• Cherry Shrimp
• Otocinclus
• Honey Gourami

Avoid keeping with

• Betta
• Tiger Barb
• Fin Nippers
• Large Cichlids

Common Problems

• pale colour in bright open tanks
• occasional ich
• stress in groups smaller than 6
• occasional male sparring (harmless display)

Sources: seriouslyfish.com, fishbase.org · Last updated: 2026-06-06