Description
Rohani Barb (Pethia conchonius)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Pethia conchonius
Common Names: Rohani Barb, Rosy Barb, Indian Rosy Barb
Family: Cyprinidae (Barbs)
Order: Cypriniformes
Origin: South and Southeast Asia — rivers and streams of India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar
Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 5 – 7 years
Tank Zone: Mid-level dweller; active and peaceful
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 150 – 300 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Elongated, slightly compressed body with silver base color and reddish-pink fins, especially in males; subtle black markings near dorsal and caudal fins.
Behavior: Peaceful, active, and schooling species; males may show mild territoriality during breeding.
Swimming Style: Constantly swims in mid-levels; active throughout the tank.
Unique Feature: Hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water conditions; males brighten in color during courtship.
Nature: Social, peaceful, and ideal for community tanks.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flakes, pellets, live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms), and vegetable matter
Feeding: Twice daily in small portions
Tip: Provide a varied diet to maintain health and vibrant coloration
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (114 L) for a small group
Filtration: Moderate filtration with good water flow
Decor: Open swimming space with plants along edges; smooth substrate
Lighting: Moderate
Water Change: 20–30% weekly to maintain water quality
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 5 or more (shoaling species)
Tank Mates: Other peaceful barbs, tetras, rasboras, danios
Avoid: Aggressive or very slow-moving fish
✅ Do’s
Keep in groups to encourage natural schooling behavior
Provide open swimming space with some planted areas
Maintain stable water conditions and clean water
Offer a varied diet to enhance coloration
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep alone — can become stressed
Don’t house with overly aggressive fish
Don’t neglect water changes or filtration
⭐ Quick Tips
The Rohani Barb is a peaceful, hardy, and colorful freshwater fish, perfect for community aquariums.
Best suited for groups of 5 or more, it displays active schooling behavior and is ideal for aquarists seeking a medium-sized, low-maintenance, and visually striking barb.
