Male Odessa Barb

Male Odessa Barb (Pethia padamya)

The Male Odessa Barb is a colourful, active schooling fish prized for its brilliant red-orange horizontal stripe, metallic silver body and contrasting black markings. Native to Myanmar, males develop particularly vivid colouration, making them an eye-catching addition to a well-established tropical community aquarium.

Care at a Glance:

• Minimum Tank Size: 100 litres (ideally kept in groups of 6 or more)

• Temperature (celsius): 20–26°C

• pH Range: 6.0–8.0

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, active and occasionally fin-nippy if kept in insufficient numbers

• Diet: Omnivore — quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen and live foods

• Max Size: 5–6cm

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Care Level: Beginner to intermediate

Tank Mates: Other active, peaceful community fish such as Zebra Danios, Rainbowfish and Corydoras. Avoid slow-moving, long-finned fish such as Bettas and fancy Guppies.

Origin: Myanmar (Burma), Southeast Asia. Inhabits freshwater streams and rivers. Most specimens available in the aquarium trade are captive-bred.