Gold barb - Puntius sachsii

Scientific name: Puntius sachsii

Common name: Gold barb

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 9 cm (3.15 - 3.54 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 12°N (89.29 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: East Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

It is very important to give this fish a varied diet. The staple diet should be a quality flake but treats of grindal worms or blood worms will be accepted. Vegetable matter should also be provided in the form of zucchini or cucumber.

Origin

South East Asia; Gold barb is most commonly found in the Red River Basins which flows through China and Vietnam.

Sexing

Females have a stockier body shape than the males but tend to have slightly duller colouration. When in spawning mode, the male will display an orange belly.

Breeding

For breeding purposes it is best to set up a separate breeding tank for these fish. Day break will normally trigger the spawning, when the first light hits the tanks eggs will be laid. They are scattered throughout the tank and at this stage it may be best to remove the parents. The eggs should hatch in 24-48 hours time and once the fry are free swimming they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or rotifers.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Puntius sachsii is 4-6 years.

Short description

Puntius sachsii are an extremely peaceful species and are ideal for the community tank. Always provide hiding places in the tank and always keep these fish in small groups of no less than 5 fish.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.