Odessa Barb - 4cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Pethia padamya
• Common Name: Odessa Barb (Male)
• Adult Size: 2 to 2.5 inches (5–6.5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 3 to 5 years
• Habitat: Slow-moving freshwater streams and ponds in Myanmar; often found in areas with dense aquatic vegetation.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (for a small school)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: 4 – 10 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
• Temperament: Peaceful, active; best kept in schools of at least 5–6 to reduce fin-nipping and stress

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
• Diet Details: Accepts a wide variety of foods—high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini can be offered occasionally.

Appearance

• Males are particularly colorful with a striking red-orange stripe running from head to tail, often brighter during breeding or when competing for attention.
• Body is typically silver or golden with some black markings.
• Fins may display red or black hues depending on health and environment.

Distinctive Features

• Vibrant red lateral stripe (especially in males) is the most recognizable feature.
• Energetic swimmers with a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body.
• Display more vivid colors when kept in planted tanks with good water quality and in the company of a group.