Elevate the visual appeal of your aquascape with the Long Fin Cherry Barb. This stunning variety of the classic Cherry Barb features elongated, flowing fins that trail gracefully as they swim. Known for their peaceful nature and the deep, ruby-red coloration seen in males, these fish are a perfect "flash of fire" for any planted community aquarium.

Quick Stats & Origin

• Scientific Name: Puntius titteya (Long Fin Variety)

• Origin: The species is native to the shaded, shallow streams of Sri Lanka. The long-finned trait is a specialty line bred for the aquarium hobby.

• Adult Size: Approximately 1.5–2 inches (excluding fin length).

• Lifespan: 4–6 years.

Care & Environment

Long Fin Cherry Barbs are incredibly hardy, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced keepers. To see their best colors and ensure the health of their delicate fins, a well-maintained environment is key.

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended. While they are small, they are active and appreciate horizontal swimming space.

• Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel helps their red colors "pop."

• Decor: They thrive in densely planted tanks with plenty of mosses and broad-leafed plants. Floating plants are also a great addition to provide the dappled lighting they prefer.

• Water Parameters: * Temperature: 73°F to 81°F (23°C–27°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard.

Feeding & Diet

These barbs are unfussy omnivores. To maintain the luster of their fins and the intensity of their red pigment, provide a varied diet.

• Daily Diet: High-quality micro-pellets or crushed flakes.

• Color Enhancement: Incorporate frozen or live foods like baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops.

• Vegetables: They will occasionally graze on algae or accept finely blanched spinach.

Tank Mates

Unlike some of their "nippy" relatives, Cherry Barbs are very peaceful.

• Ideal Partners: Small tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis. They are also generally safe with adult ornamental shrimp.

• Social Needs: They should be kept in groups of 6 or more. Keeping more females than males will help reduce competition and encourage the males to display their most intense colors.

• Avoid: Large, aggressive tank mates or notorious fin-nippers that might damage their flowing fins.

Breeding

Cherry Barbs are one of the easier cyprinids to breed in captivity.

• Setup: A separate breeding tank with a mesh bottom or "spawning mops" is ideal to protect the eggs.

• Process: The male will drive the female into the plants to scatter eggs.

• Fry Care: Once spawning is complete, remove the parents. The fry will hatch in about 24–48 hours and can be fed infusoria followed by freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Pro Tip: Keep your Long Fin Cherry Barbs in a planted tank with a dark background; the contrast against their deep red bodies and flowing fins creates a professional, high-end look.

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• The photos shown on fish product pages are representations of adult fish and are NOT the actual fish that you will be receiving. 
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