Bring the elegance of a koi pond into your indoor aquarium with the stunning Gold Calico "Koi" Barb. A vibrant, selective-bred color morph of the classic Gold Barb, this variety features a brilliant metallic gold base accented with irregular "calico" patches of deep black and orange. Hardier than actual koi and much better suited for tropical setups, these barbs offer high-contrast beauty and playful energy.

Quick Care Overview

• Origin: Captive-bred variety (Ancestors native to East Asia/China)

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive to Peaceful (Best in schools)

• Size: 2.5 to 3 inches (7 cm)

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons

• Water Temperature: 64°F to 75°F (Prefers cooler tropical water)

• pH Level: 6.0 – 8.0

Natural Habitat & Environment

While the Gold Calico Barb is a product of careful breeding, it retains the hardy instincts of its wild ancestors found in flowing streams and rivers. They are exceptionally adaptable but thrive best in a long tank that allows for horizontal swimming.

• Setup: Use a mix of open swimming space and dense peripheral planting.

• Substrate: Dark gravel or sand will make their "koi" patterns and golden scales stand out vividly.

• Flow: They appreciate a moderate water current to mimic their natural riverine origins.

Diet & Feeding

These barbs are enthusiastic omnivores and aren't picky. To maintain their intense "koi" coloration, we recommend a diet rich in carotenoids:

• Core: High-quality color-enhancing flakes or sinking pellets.

• Frozen/Live: Brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp.

• Greens: They will occasionally graze on algae or blanched zucchini.

Ideal Tank Mates

The Gold Calico Barb is social but can be "zippy." They must be kept in a group of 6 or more to reduce fin-nipping behavior and stress.

• Best matches: Rosy Barbs, Cherry Barbs, Zebra Danios, peaceful Loaches, and larger Tetras.

• Avoid: Slow-moving fish with long, flowing fins (like fancy Guppies or Bettas), as the barbs may find their fins too tempting to ignore.

Breeding the Gold Calico "Koi" Barb

Breeding this variety is straightforward for intermediate keepers. They are egg-scatterers that provide no parental care. To succeed, move a conditioned pair to a separate breeding tank filled with fine-leaved plants or a mesh floor to protect the eggs from being eaten. After spawning, remove the adults immediately. The fry will hatch in approximately 24–48 hours and can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food.

Why Choose the Gold Calico "Koi" Barb?

If you love the aesthetic of a Koi pond but lack the space for a massive outdoor setup, this barb is your perfect solution. Their "calico" markings are unique to every individual fish, meaning your school will be a one-of-a-kind collection of living art. They are exceptionally hardy, making them a top-tier choice for beginners.

PLEASE READ BEFORE ORDERING

• The photos shown on fish product pages are representations of adult fish and are NOT the actual fish that you will be receiving. 
• Please visit our “Ordering/Shipping fish” page prior to checking out to familiarize yourself with our process.

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