Our Guide To Keeping Odessa Barb Fish
-
About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Pethia padamya
- Common name: Odessa Barb
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Origin: Myanmar (Burma)
- Adult length: 5 cm
- Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
-
Tank Setup:
- Odessa Barbs thrive in planted tanks with plenty of open swimming space. A minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended.
- Provide ample hiding places among plants and driftwood to mimic their natural habitat.
-
Water Parameters:
- Odessa Barbs prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
- Keep the water temperature between 22 to 27°C (72 to 80°F).
-
Filtration and Water Flow:
- A moderate water flow is suitable for Odessa Barbs, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.
-
Diet:
- Odessa Barbs are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
-
Tank mates:
- Odessa Barbs are peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to prevent stress and encourage their natural behaviors.
- They are compatible with other peaceful community fish such as other barbs, tetras, rasboras, danios, and small catfish species.
-
Behavior and Compatibility:
- Odessa Barbs are active and social fish that display schooling behavior, so they feel more secure and exhibit their best colors when kept in a group.
- Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish species that may intimidate or harass them.