Cherry Barb - Puntius titteya

The Cherry Barb is found in heavily shaded streams and rivers in the Kelani to Nilwala basins of Sri Lanka. Feral populations of Cherry Barbs have also been found in Colombia and Mexico. They prefer areas of slow moving, shallow water with a bottom of silt and plenty of branches and leaf litter. In nature, this barb is an omnivore and feeds on diatoms, algae, invertebrates, and detritus.

Cherry Barbs are very hardy little fish. They are great eaters and get along with most tankmates. Their water requirements are fairly easy to meet with regular partial changes. Provided with proper care, these little beauties make a great choice for the beginning fish keeper.

Since they are omnivorous the Cherry Barb will generally eat all kinds of live, fresh, and flake foods. To keep a good balance, give them a high quality flake food every day. Feed brine shrimp (either live or frozen) or blood worms as a treat. Several small feedings a day are ideal, and at least one feeding a day is absolutely necessary. A general rule of thumb when offering food several times a day is to offer only what they can consume in 3 minutes or less at each feeding. When offering food just once a day, provide what they can eat in about 5 minutes.

Cherry Barb (Capoeta titteya)

The Cherry Barb (Capoeta titteya) is a vibrant and peaceful freshwater fish that adds a splash of color to any aquarium. Known for its striking red coloration, especially in males, this species is perfect for community tanks and planted aquariums. It’s hardy, easy to care for, and well-suited for both beginner and experienced aquarists alike.

Product Details

• Species: Capoeta titteya
• Common Names: Cherry Barb
• Origin: South Asia (India, Sri Lanka)
• Light Requirements: Moderate
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C
• Maximum Size: 5 cm (2 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Reef Safe: No (freshwater species)
• Available Size: 3 cm

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
Cherry Barbs do well in community aquariums with plenty of live plants and hiding spaces. They are peaceful, so they can be kept with other non-aggressive species, such as tetras, corydoras, and guppies. A well-planted tank with a gentle filter flow is ideal. Cherry Barbs prefer to live in schools of at least six individuals, as this helps them feel secure.

Water Parameters:
Maintain a pH range of 6.0 – 7.5, with temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. Cherry Barbs prefer stable water conditions, so regular water changes and efficient filtration are important to ensure their health. Soft to moderately hard water is ideal.

Diet:
Cherry Barbs are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods. Feed them a balanced diet of high-quality flake food, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They will also graze on algae and plant matter, so they can help with tank maintenance.

Behavior and Maintenance:
This species is peaceful and active, often swimming in the middle and lower regions of the tank. They enjoy being part of a school, so it’s important to keep them in groups. Cherry Barbs are relatively low-maintenance but will benefit from a well-maintained tank with stable water parameters.

Compatibility:

Cherry Barbs are ideal for community tanks with other peaceful species such as small tetras, guppies, and corydoras. Avoid housing them with aggressive fish or species that might stress them. They are peaceful and enjoy the company of their own kind, so it’s best to keep them in small schools of at least 6–8 fish.

Availability:
The Cherry Barb (Capoeta titteya) is available at LiveFish. Visit or contact the store to check availability and add this stunning fish to your aquarium today!