Care
The Odessa Barb was once thought to be a hybrid of two barb species, but it recently came to light that this fish has a natural distribution area in a remote area of Myanmar. It is likely that the tank-raised fish we see today originated from this area. Odessa Barbs are, on the whole, a relatively peaceful species (although they should not be trusted with any long-finned fish that are slow-moving) and must be maintained in groups of at least 6 specimens due to their shoaling nature. This is one of many species that never usually looks at its best in dealer's stock tanks, but once settled into a planted aquarium, the wonderful eye-catching colouration of this active species will become very apparent. This species appreciates slightly cooler than average temperatures.
Feeding
Eagerly accepts most aquarium fare offered: flake, green flake, micropellets, small frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, daphnia etc. Will nibble at algae growing on plant leaves.
Breeding
A well-conditioned pair should be added to a dedicated softwater breeding aquarium containing a large quantity of Java moss clumps. When ready (often when the first rays of morning sun hit the aquarium), the female will scatter her eggs over the Java moss, with the male following closely behind her, fertilising the eggs as soon as they are released. Once spawning has ceased the parents should be removed immediately to prevent predation. The eggs should hatch within 48-72 hours, dependent on temperature. Once free-swimming, the fry should be offered infusoria, moving on to slightly larger foods as they grow.
