Copper-Head Rosy Barb

Species Profile: Copper-Head Rosy Barb

• Scientific Name: Pethia conchonius
• Common Name: Copper-Head Rosy Barb
• Adult Size: 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches)
• Life Expectancy: 4–5 years

• Habitat: Streams, rivers, and ponds in South Asia—especially in Nepal, Bangladesh, and northern India. Prefers slow-moving, well-planted freshwater habitats.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) for a small group
• Ideal Temperature: 18°C – 26°C (64°F – 79°F)
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful but active; best kept in groups of 5 or more to reduce nipping. Good community fish with similarly sized and temperament tank mates.

Diet & Nutrition

• Diet: Omnivore
• Preferred Foods: Flakes, pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
• Feeding Tips: Feed small amounts once or twice daily. Supplement with vegetable matter for color and health.

Breeding & Spawning

• Breeding Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Spawning Type: Egg scatterers; no parental care
• Spawning Setup: Use a separate tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Condition breeders with high-protein foods.
• Fry Care: Remove adults after spawning. Eggs hatch in about 24–48 hours. Feed fry infusoria, then baby brine shrimp.

Appearance

• Coloration: Metallic copper to pinkish-red body with a more intense copper-colored head in the "Copper-Head" variation. Males are more colorful and slender; females are rounder and lighter in color.
• Body Shape: Streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a forked tail.

Distinctive Features

• Recognized for their beautiful copper-tinted head and vibrant body coloration.
• Hardy and beginner-friendly, tolerant of a range of water conditions.
• Active swimmers; they add movement and color to community tanks.
• Can display schooling behavior when kept in groups.