Chinese Barb - Barbodes semifasciolatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Chinese Barb (Barbodes semifasciolatus) represents the wild counterpart of the more commonly encountered captive-bred Gold Barb in the aquarium trade. While the Gold Barb enjoys greater popularity, the Chinese Barb remains relatively scarce. Renowned for their vibrant colouration and peaceful nature, Chinese Barbs are resilient fish capable of adapting to a wide range of water parameters, thus making them an excellent choice for novice aquarists. It is worth noting, however, that these Barbs have a propensity to nibble on plants in planted aquariums, making them less suitable for heavily vegetated setups.
Due to their shoaling nature, keeping Chinese Barbs in groups of at least six individuals is recommended. Larger groups not only enhance the visual impact of their display but also provide a captivating observation of their intriguing behaviour. As Chinese Barbs thrive in temperatures at the lower end of the tropical range, it is crucial to ensure compatibility with tankmates that share similar temperature requirements. Adequate oxygenation levels and moderate water current should be maintained, complemented by effective filtration to maintain optimal water quality.
The Chinese Barb possesses distinct characteristics, including short barbels located at the corners of their mouth, as well as a sloped back. Their metallic green bodies exhibit a shimmering brassy sheen underneath, while the belly presents a whitish hue that transitions to a reddish-bronze colouration during mating displays in males.
Chinese Barb Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Chinese Barbs is relatively straightforward. Females exhibit a duller appearance with rounder stomachs, while males showcase brighter colours, streamlined bodies, and smaller overall sizes compared to females. Furthermore, sexually mature males develop red colouration in the lower portion of their bodies, serving as a distinguishing characteristic.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Barbodes semifasciolatus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1868 |
| Other Names | Green Barb |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Barbodes |
| Origins | Vietnam , Taiwan , China , Laos |
| Max Size | 7.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 1 - 10 |
| TDS | 36 - 357 |
| ℉ | 64 - 75 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 17 - 23 |
Natural Habitat
The Chinese Barb originates from the Red River Drainage in Southeast Asia, specifically Vietnam, Taiwan, southwestern China, and northern Laos. In their native range, these Barbs inhabit freshwater environments with depths of 5 meters or less. Their natural habitats are typically characterized by the presence of dense aquatic or riparian vegetation, where they form schools close to the substrate. The Chinese Barb displays a preference for still waters and slower-flowing tributaries, including swamps and irrigation channels.
Breeding
Breeding the Chinese Barb can be considered moderately feasible with the appropriate conditions. To commence the breeding process, it is essential to set up a separate breeding tank, densely planted with fine-leaved vegetation such as java moss. Additionally, the use of spawning mops or a mesh at the base of the aquarium can facilitate the unhindered descent of eggs, preventing parental access.
Ensuring an abundance of hiding spots for the female is advised, as the male may exhibit intrusive behaviour during the spawning process. Dimly lit tank lighting, soft water conditions, a relatively low pH level, and a slow-flowing filter contribute to an ideal breeding environment.
There are two viable approaches to spawning Chinese Barbs. One option is to pair a healthy female with a vibrant male, carefully selecting the most optimal specimens. Alternatively, spawning can be attempted in a group setup comprising half a dozen individuals of each sex. Conditioning the fish with live foods in the days leading up to spawning significantly enhances the chances of success.
Once spawning has occurred and the eggs have been laid, hatching typically takes place within a couple of days. Initially, the fry should be nourished with infusoria-grade foods until they reach a size suitable for accepting microworms, baby brine shrimp, or similar food sources.
Diet & Feeding
The Chinese Barb readily accepts a diverse range of high-quality dried foods in the home aquarium, including granules, flakes, and sinking pellets. These advanced food formulations have been meticulously developed to meet all the essential nutritional requirements necessary to uphold the overall health and dietary needs of your fish.
Although these dried food options alone can adequately sustain their well-being, incorporating supplementary food sources such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals like bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week provides additional health benefits to your fish. It is important to note, however, that bloodworms should be offered as an occasional treat rather than a staple diet, as they pose challenges for fish digestion and may potentially lead to blockages.
As an omnivorous species in the wild, the Chinese Barb consumes a certain amount of vegetable matter. Most modern fish foods on the market take this into consideration and incorporate plant-based components into their formulations. Nevertheless, supplementing your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini can serve as a beneficial addition.
It is crucial to exercise caution and avoid overfeeding while promptly removing any uneaten food the following day to maintain optimal water quality and prevent waste accumulation.
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