Odessa Barb (Pethia padamya)

Quarantined barb for planted and community aquariums in Canada.

The Odessa Barb is a colourful, active barb known for the bright red body stripe displayed by mature males. It is a popular schooling fish for planted community aquariums that can handle energetic swimmers.

Why This Fish Stands Out

• Mature males show a vivid red stripe
• Active schooling fish with strong movement
• Good planted community fish with compatible tankmates

Aquarium Setup & Behaviour

Use a mature aquarium with open swimming space, plants or hardscape around the sides, and active peaceful tankmates.

Best kept in a group. Males show better colour and behaviour when kept with other Odessa Barbs.

Feeding

Feed quality flakes or pellets plus frozen/live foods and some plant-based foods.

Natural Colour & Livestock Integrity

Colour comes from genetics, maturity, health, and proper conditioning. Topick Aquarium does not use hormones to artificially enhance fish colour.

Topick Aquarium Livestock Standard

All fish at Topick Aquarium are carefully quarantined and conditioned to our stable local tap water before sale. Although barbs and rasboras may come from different natural habitats, stable water, gradual acclimation, healthy feeding, and a mature aquarium matter more than chasing exact wild parameters.

Care Summary

• Scientific Name: Pethia padamya
• Adult Size: Approximately 5–6 cm
• Care Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Recommended Tank: Mature planted community aquarium with stable filtration and compatible tankmates

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some Odessa Barbs look less red?
Males develop stronger red colour with maturity, condition, and social display.

Are Odessa Barbs fin nippers?
They are active but generally manageable when kept in a proper group with suitable tankmates.

Are they good for planted aquariums?
Yes, they add movement and colour to larger planted community tanks.

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