Pethia gelius – Golden Barb
Pethia gelius was described by Hamilton in 1822. The genus name Pethia is the generic local name for small cyprinids in Sinhala, the language of Sri Lanka. The species nam gelius is a local name for this species. Their common name is Golden Barb.
They belong to the Cyprinidae family, (Minnows or Carps). This family is very large, it has about 158 genera and around 1.724 species.
Description
Pethia gelius is a peaceful schooling fish that is also suitable for small aquariums. They do not grow very large, with a maximum total length of about 4.5 centimeters. When they are adults, the difference between males and females can be seen in their build. The males have a slightly slimmer build than the fuller females.
The color and markings of the Golden Barb are somewhat variable and depend on the origin. They have a yellow/golden to light orange color with a few black spots on them. The most striking are the black spots at the bottom of the dorsal fin and on the caudal peduncle. Depending on the mood, the spots can be clearly visible or disappear completely.
Origin
The Golden Barb is found in northern India, Nepal and Bangladesh. They may also occur in Myanmar. They inhabit the river basins of the Ganges and Brahmaputra.
Diet
Small live food should be given as food. Algae is also eaten. Dry food is accepted as well. The food should not be too large.
The Aquarium
Keep the Golden Barb in a school of at least 8-10 individuals. It is best kept in the company of other small species. Species that combine well are, for example, those from the genus Microdevario, Trigonostigma and shrimps.
Because it is a schooling fish, it needs others of its own kind to feel safe. They therefore need a slightly larger aquarium. We recommend a minimum length of 60 centimeters.
The aquarium should be furnished with a dark bottom, some cryptos and some driftwood and roots. Plenty of free swimming space should be left open. The species is quite sensitive to high temperatures. The recommended temperature is between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius at a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 and GH of 1 -10.
Breeding Pethia gelius
Breeding Pethia gelius is quite simple. It is wise to only use the most beautiful specimen for breeding. Up to 100 eggs are laid on the underside of plants. After spawning, the parents must be removed. After 24 hours the young hatch. They should be raised with the finest infusion and later Artemia nauplii.
Authors
Jan Bukkems – Aquavisie
John de Lange
Copyright images
Frank M. Greco – CC BY 3.0
Francis Day