Odessa Barb - Pethia Padamya : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Odessa Barb (Pethia Padamya) stands out as an exquisite addition to community aquariums, shining with its versatility and ease of care. This species demonstrates remarkable adaptability, flourishing across a wide spectrum of water conditions, including those of unheated aquariums. Characterized by their tranquility, resilience, and low maintenance requirements, Odessa Barbs present themselves as an ideal selection for aquarists at any level of expertise.
To ensure their welfare, it is essential to keep them in shoals, with a recommended minimum group size of six individuals. This social structure not only mirrors their natural behavior but also significantly enhances their overall health and happiness within the aquarium setting. The Odessa Barb's tranquil demeanor opens a wide array of possibilities for compatible tank mates. This species is well-suited to coexist with nearly any non-aggressive fish species that does not perceive them as prey. Ideal companions include Barbs, Tetras, Rasboras, Bolivian Ram Cichlids, and Apistogrammas. However, it is advisable to practice caution when introducing them to aquariums with long-finned or slow-moving fish, as Odessa Barbs may exhibit fin-nipping behavior.
To optimize the habitat for these stunning specimens, aim for a slightly acidic aquarium enriched with dense aquatic vegetation. For an ideal Odessa Barb environment, incorporating elements such as rocks, pebbles, sand, and small boulders into the aquarium design is recommended. Including robust plant species like Anubias and Microsorum will further enhance the well-being of your fish. While an extensive filtration system is not mandatory, these Barbs favor some water movement, making a hill stream setup an excellent choice to mimic their natural living conditions effectively.
The Odessa Barb has a striking appearance, with an elongated egg-shaped body that is flattened on the sides. Their backs are green, their sides are silvery and metallic, and their stomachs are white. These fish also have dark spots above the pectoral fins and near the caudal fin, with the first spot elongated and resembling a vertical stripe. A dark red-brown horizontal line runs from the mouth through the eyes and down the body to the male's tail.
The scales form a clear blended pattern on their body, making for a truly stunning sight in any aquarium. To make the most out of your Odessa Barb experience, it's best to pair them with other Cyprinids like Garras, Rainbowfish, Gouramis, and Loaches. These fish prefer medium-to-large, active tankmates and tend to chase smaller fish. So, with a little bit of planning and the right setup, you can create a thriving and harmonious community aquarium with these breathtaking fish as the centrepiece.
Odessa Barb Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Odessa Barbs is relatively straightforward. Females typically exhibit a larger size and a more rounded body shape, while males are smaller and display more vibrant coloration, including a prominent red stripe on their bodies.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pethia Padamya |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2008 |
| Other Names | Scarlet Barb |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Pethia |
| Origins | Thailand , Nepal , Sri Lanka , Pakistan , India , Laos , Myanmar , Bangladesh , China , Bhutan |
| Max Size | 7 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 10 |
| ℉ | 75 - 78 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 24 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Odessa Barb, a captivating species, thrives amidst the rich and varied landscapes of Southeast Asia, extending from Thailand to the Himalayas. These remarkable fish inhabit tranquil backwaters and ponds nestled within expansive rivers, where lush vegetation and slightly acidic waters create an ideal habitat for their flourishing. Native to a broad expanse spanning Bhutan, China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Laos, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Odessa, and Nepal, they navigate diverse aquatic environments with grace.
Often observed foraging in muddy substrates, they contribute to the picturesque allure of their natural surroundings. From the upper reaches of the Chao Phraya Basin to the Meklong, upper Mekong, Salween, and Irrawaddy rivers, their presence enhances the captivating beauty and biodiversity of these aquatic ecosystems, offering nature enthusiasts and aquatic aficionados a compelling opportunity for exploration.
Breeding
Breeding Odessa Barbs in a community aquarium can prove to be challenging, if not impossible. To increase the likelihood of success, a dedicated breeding tank with a bare bottom or an abundance of plants and a slightly lower pH is recommended. Odessa Barbs reach reproductive maturity at around 5 to 6 months of age, and a female can lay up to 150 eggs, releasing them in batches of approximately 20 at a time over several hours.
To prevent the eggs from being eaten, it is essential to remove the parents once the eggs have been deposited and fertilized. The eggs typically hatch within 1 to 3 days, and the fry will become free-swimming approximately 24 hours after hatching. Upon reaching the free-swimming stage, the fry should initially be fed infusoria. As they grow, gradually introduce slightly larger food items to accommodate their nutritional needs.
Diet & Feeding
Odessa Barbs exhibit a flexible dietary preference, though their considerable activity levels necessitate a robust appetite. To ensure their nutritional needs are fully met, offering a varied diet is advised. This species is amenable to a wide array of food types, including flakes, granules, and both freeze-dried and live options like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Additionally, they show a notable fondness for vegetable matter, eagerly consuming items such as cucumbers and lettuce.
Frequently asked questions
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