6 x Golden Dwarf Barb: A Tiny Jewel for the Aquarium Scientific Name: Pethia gelius (formerly Puntius gelius)

Product Description:

Scientific and Common Names: The scientific name for the 6 x Golden Dwarf Barb is Pethia gelius (formerly known as Puntius gelius). It is commonly referred to as the Golden Dwarf Barb.

Habitat: Golden Dwarf Barbs are native to the rivers and streams of Southeast Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. They prefer slow-moving waters with dense vegetation.

Tank Setup: These fish require a well-maintained aquarium with a minimum size of 20 gallons. It is recommended to provide plenty of hiding spots with live plants, rocks, and driftwood. A sandy substrate is ideal for them.

Diet and Nutrition: Golden Dwarf Barbs are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods. Their diet should consist of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.

Size and Growth Rate: Golden Dwarf Barbs are small fish, reaching an average size of 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 cm) in length. They have a relatively slow growth rate.

Behavioral Traits: These fish are peaceful and social, making them suitable for community aquariums. They are active swimmers and enjoy shoaling, so it is recommended to keep them in groups of at least six individuals.

Care Level: Golden Dwarf Barbs are relatively easy to care for and are suitable for both beginner and experienced fishkeepers. They are hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water conditions.

Breeding and Reproduction: Breeding Golden Dwarf Barbs can be achieved in a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water. The female will scatter her eggs among plants, and the male will fertilize them. After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Health and Disease Prevention: Maintaining good water quality and providing a balanced diet are essential for the health of Golden Dwarf Barbs. Regular water changes and monitoring water parameters are recommended. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions: Golden Dwarf Barbs prefer a temperature range of 72-79°F (22-26°C) and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. They can tolerate a wide range of water hardness, but slightly soft to moderately hard water is ideal.

Lifespan: With proper care, Golden Dwarf Barbs can live for up to 5 years or more in captivity.

Additional Interesting Facts: Golden Dwarf Barbs are known for their striking golden coloration, which intensifies during breeding. They are peaceful towards other fish species but may nip at the fins of long-finned tankmates. These fish are also known for their playful and active nature, providing entertainment and liveliness to the aquarium.