30+ Types of Barb Fish to Keep in Your Aquarium
Dive into the fascinating world of Barb fish, a diverse and colorful group that can bring life to any aquarium. Explore the various types, their unique features, and why they make an ideal choice for fish enthusiasts. Ready to meet these charming swimmers?
Tiger Barb
Tiger Barbs are easily recognizable due to their striking appearance, featuring bold black stripes against a vibrant orange or silver background. These active schooling fish can sometimes be a bit nippy with tankmates, so choose wisely.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Temperature: 74-79°F (23-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Golden Barb
Golden Barbs, also known as Chinese Barbs, are gorgeous metallic gold-colored fish that can bring a touch of shimmer to your aquarium. They’re peaceful schooling fish that appreciate the company of other barbs and compatible tank mates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 68-79°F (20-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Cherry Barb
The Cherry Barb is a popular aquarium fish known for its distinctive red coloration and elegant, slender body. These peaceful fish are best kept in a school of six or more and enjoy the company of other peaceful tankmates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)
Rosy Barb
Rosy Barbs are an alluring species with a rosy pink hue and elegant, elongated fins. They are active and hardy fish, making them an ideal choice for beginners looking to add a pop of color to their tank.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Temperature: 64-72°F (18-22°C)
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Checker Barb
With its distinct checker-like pattern and peaceful nature, the Checker Barb is an attractive addition to any community aquarium. These social fish prefer the company of their own kind and thrive in a harmonious environment.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 73-79°F (23-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Denison Barb
Denison Barbs, also known as Red Lined Torpedo Barbs, are a captivating species with a torpedo-like body and a striking red lateral line. They are an active, schooling fish that add energy and vibrancy to your aquarium.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 40 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 6-8 years
- Temperature: 60-77°F (15-25°C)
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Spanner Barb
Spanner Barbs, also known as T-Barbs, exhibit an alluringly tapered body and a distinct dark band running vertically through their eyes. They are peaceful community fish that prefer to live in schools with other congenial species.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
Drape Fin Barb
Drape Fin Barbs captivate with their stunning, elongated dorsal fins, which resemble a flowing drape. These intriguing swimmers are shy, peaceful fish that appreciate a well-planted aquarium with similarly gentle tankmates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Clown Barb
Clown Barbs, with their eye-catching red and silver striped bodies, are bound to be the life of your aquatic party. These exuberant schooling fish require larger tanks, given their active swimming habits and penchant for ample space.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 5-6 years
- Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm)
Arulius Barb
The Arulius Barb, known for its striking black and gold markings, is a captivating species with a peaceful disposition. These sociable fish prefer the companionship of their own kind in a well-planted tank that offers ample space to swim.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
Curmuca Barb
The Curmuca Barb is a lesser-known species noted for its uniquely-shaped, elongated body and slender, pointed snout. They are peaceful and hardy fish, suited to community tanks with non-aggressive companions.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 500 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Temperature: 73-79°F (23-26°C)
- Adult Size: 35-40 inches (90-100 cm)
Chubbyhead Barb (Barbus anoplus)
The Chubbyhead Barb earns its endearing name from its notably round head and plump body. These friendly schooling fish are a perfect addition to community tanks, bringing charm and personality to your underwater realm.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Temperature: 71-78°F (22-25°C)
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Beardless Barb (Cyclocheilichthys apogon)
The Beardless Barb, sporting a vibrant mix of gold, silver, and black hues, presents a truly memorable appearance. Peaceful and relatively hardy, these fish can thrive in a community setting with other like-minded species.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 66-77°F (19-25°C)
- Adult Size: 9-10 inches (22-25 cm)
Five Banded Barb
The Five Banded Barb exhibits a captivating pattern of five distinct bands across its body, making it an eye-catching addition to any home aquarium. Its peaceful nature and preference for schooling make it an exceptional choice for community tanks.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6.5 cm)
Greenstripe Barb
The Greenstripe Barb is cherished for its striking greenish-silver bands on a gleaming silver body, adding a touch of iridescence to any aquarium. This peaceful species is perfect for community tanks with other gentle-natured fish.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Khavli Barb / Maharaja Barb
The Khavli Barb, also known as Maharaja Barb, stands out with its striking silver and black striped pattern. With their peaceful nature and schooling preference, these fish make a stunning and harmonious addition to a community aquarium.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
Redside Barb / Two-Spot Barb
The Redside Barb, also called Two-Spot Barb, exudes charm with its warm reddish-gold colors and signature black spots. This peaceful schooling fish is an ideal centerpiece for any community tank filled with similar-minded aquatic friends.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
- Adult Size: 3-3.5 inches (7.5-9 cm)
Swamp Barb
The Swamp Barb is a delightful species boasting a silver-toned body with intricate black markings near its tail, offering a distinctive addition to your aquarium. These easygoing fish appreciate the company of similarly peaceful tankmates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 73-77°F (23-25°C)
- Adult Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm)
Ticto Barb / Odessa Barb / Red Crystal
The Ticto Barb, also known as Odessa Barb or Red Crystal, showcases a shimmering silver body with a fiery red streak, making it a true standout in any aquarium. This sociable fish enjoys the company of its kind and other peaceful tankmates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
- Adult Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6.5 cm)
Red Cheek Barb
The Red Cheek Barb boasts vibrant red accents on its cheeks, lending a touch of fiery flair to your aquatic setup. These peaceful fish enjoy schooling and appreciate an environment filled with other amiable tankmates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 72-77°F (22-25°C)
- Adult Size: 3-3.5 inches (7.5-9 cm)
Tinfoil Barb
The Tinfoil Barb earns its name from its gleaming silver appearance, resembling a piece of tinfoil. These large and active fish make a dramatic statement in spacious tanks and get along well with other sizable, placid tankmates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
- Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size: 12-14 inches (30-35 cm)
Sawbwa Barb
The Sawbwa Barb offers an enchanting addition to your aquarium with its translucent body, allowing you to witness its fascinating internal structures. These peaceful fish prefer well-planted tanks with other gentle-natured species.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Carnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Temperature: 68-74°F (20-23°C)
- Adult Size: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm)
Filament Barb
The Filament Barb draws attention with its graceful fins and slender, elongated body. As adaptable, peaceful fish, they’ll thrive in a spacious, well-planted tank alongside other gentle tankmates that share their love for serene environments.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 71-77°F (22-25°C)
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
Green Tiger Barb
The Green Tiger Barb presents a captivating blend of green and black hues, with bands resembling those of its Tiger Barb cousins. While these eye-catching fish are active and social, they may display nipping behavior around slower tankmates.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Temperature: 74-79°F (23-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Albino Tiger Barb
The Albino Tiger Barb is a striking variety, featuring captivating golden scales and a hint of pale pink, bringing a distinctive charm to your aquarium. Despite their gorgeous appearance, they share their standard Tiger Barb relatives’ nipping tendencies.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
- Temperature: 74-79°F (23-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm)
Java / Silver Barb
The Java Barb, also known as Silver Barb, captures attention with its sleek silver body and subtle greenish hue. These peaceful swimmers make an excellent choice for community tanks, coexisting harmoniously with other gentle fish species.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
Rhombo Barb / Snakeskin Barb
The Rhombo Barb, also called Snakeskin Barb, showcases intricate scale patterns reminiscent of a snakeskin, setting them apart from other Barb species. These peaceful fish appreciate being in a school with other gentle tank mates.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 68-79°F (20-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6.5 cm)
African Banded Barb
The African Banded Barb stands out with its striking black bands and shimmering gold hue. While these fish may be territorial, they generally coexist well with other tankmates that exhibit a similar temperament.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet: Omnivore
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Temperature: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
- Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Hampala Barb (Hampala macrolepidota)
The Hampala Barb, also known as the Jungle Perch, is an active and impressive freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. With its golden-bronze body adorned with distinct horizontal stripes, this captivating species is known for its fast swimming and voracious appetite.
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Adult Size: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)
Mahecola Barb (Puntius mahecola)
The Mahecola Barb is a small, captivating species native to Kerala, South India. With its slim, elongated shape and shimmering, iridescent colors matching the cerulean waters it inhabits, this peaceful barb is a popular choice for community tank setups.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 70-79°F (21-26°C)
- Adult Size: 3-3.5 in (7.6-8.9 cm)
Panda Barb (Haludaria fasciata)
The Panda Barb, a charming species native to the Western Ghats region of India, draws attention with its striking contrast of black and silver bands. This naturally schooling fish thrives in well-planted aquariums, making a lively and endearing addition to any freshwater setup.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size: 2-2.5 in (5-6.4 cm)
Purplehead Barb (Ruby Barb)
The Purplehead Barb, also known as the Ruby Barb, is a breathtaking freshwater fish displaying vibrant red and purple head coloring. Originating from the hills of Sri Lanka, this peaceful and sociable species makes a stunning addition to any community tank.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: 5-6 years
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
- Adult Size: 2-2.4 in (5-6 cm)
Pool Barb (Puntius sophore)
The Pool Barb, an engaging and resilient species native to South Asia, displays a rusty orange hue with black markings, becoming more prominent during breeding. These adaptable fish are an excellent choice for beginners and thrive in a variety of water conditions.
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
- Temperature: 68-79°F (20-26°C)
- Adult Size: 3-4 in (7.6-10 cm)
Conclusion
With such an array of Barb fish species available, there’s surely a Barb that complements your aquarium setup and preferences. Have a favorite Barb or experience to share? Leave a comment and let us know!
