Imagine a flash of crimson gliding through your planted tank — that's the Longfin Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya), a breathtaking variant of the classic Cherry Barb, dressed up with flowing, elegant fins that trail like silk in the current. Whether you're a seasoned aquarist or just starting your fishkeeping journey, this gem will instantly become the centerpiece of any community aquarium. Overview Attribute Details Common Name Longfin Cherry Barb Scientific Name Puntius titteya (longfin variant) Origin Sri Lanka (selectively bred variant) Adult Size Approximately 1.5 – 2 inches (4 – 5 cm) Lifespan 4 – 6 years Difficulty Beginner – Easy Temperament Peaceful, active, schooling Appearance The Longfin Cherry Barb is a selectively bred form of the standard Cherry Barb, distinguished by its dramatically elongated dorsal, caudal, and pectoral fins. Males display a rich, deep cherry-red body that intensifies during spawning, while females show a more subtle golden-brown hue with a dark lateral stripe. Together, a mixed group creates a stunning visual contrast in any aquascape. Water Parameters & Tank Setup Temperature: 73 – 81°F (23 – 27°C) pH: 6.0 – 7.5 General Hardness (GH): 4 – 15 dGH Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a school of 6+ Lighting: Moderate; they thrive in well-planted tanks with some shaded areas Substrate: Dark, fine-grained substrate enhances their red coloration Plants & Decor: Dense planting with open swimming space — Java fern, Anubias, and floating plants are ideal Diet & Feeding Longfin Cherry Barbs are unfussy omnivores and will eagerly accept a wide variety of foods: Staple: High-quality micro pellets or flake food Treats: Frozen or live daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and micro worms Vegetables: Blanched spinach or zucchini occasionally Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily, only what they can consume in 2–3 minutes. Compatibility & Tank Mates These peaceful schoolers do best in groups of 6 or more and get along wonderfully with other small, non-aggressive fish. Great tank mates include: Tetras (Neon, Ember, Cardinal) Rasboras (Harlequin, Chili) Corydoras catfish Small livebearers (Endlers, Guppies) Dwarf shrimp (with caution — adults are generally safe) Avoid housing with fin-nipping species, as their long fins can be a target. Breeding Longfin Cherry Barbs are egg scatterers and can breed readily in a well-conditioned aquarium. A separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop is recommended. After spawning, remove the parents to prevent them from eating the eggs. Fry hatch within 24–48 hours and can be fed infusoria or liquid fry food initially. The Longfin Cherry Barb is more than just a fish — it's a living work of art. Add a school to your aquarium and watch your tank transform into a vibrant, flowing masterpiece.
