Cherry Barb: Caring for Puntius titteye
- aquaterraobsession
- Aug 25
- 12 min read
Updated: Sep 4
Comprehensive Biotope and Aquarium Care Sheet
:
This care sheet provides a comprehensive guide for aquarists who wish to authentically replicate the Cherry Barb’s native environment, drive optimal care outcomes, and contribute to the ongoing appreciation and preservation of these stunning cyprinids.
Table of Contents
Table: Native Cohabiting Fish
Table: Native Aquatic Plants
Table: Native Aquatic Invertebrates
Introduction
The Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya), with its vibrant cherry-red coloration and peaceful demeanor, stands out as one of the most beloved freshwater fish in the aquarium trade. Endemic to the southwestern “wet zone” of Sri Lanka, the Cherry Barb’s native habitat is a microcosm of rich biodiversity, shaded by dense rainforest canopies and fed by clear, soft, slightly acidic streams.
Creating a naturalistic aquarium for Cherry Barbs is not just aesthetically rewarding—it offers insights into the complex interactions of their biotope, supports optimal fish health, and highlights important conservation issues.
Summary Table of Key Care Parameters
Parameter | Details |
Scientific Name | Puntius titteya |
Common Names | Cherry Barb, Crimson Carplet, Barbus titteya, Capoeta titteya |
Care Level | Easy |
Natural Range | Sri Lanka: Kelani & Nilwala river basins, SW wet-zone; rare non-native populations in Latin America |
Habitat Type | Shaded, slow-moving forest streams, shallow rivers, ponds, with sandy/silty substrate, leaf litter, marginal vegetation |
Adult Size | 1.5–2 in (3.8–5 cm) |
Lifespan | 4–6 years |
Tank Level | Mid‐level to bottom dweller |
Temperament | Peaceful, schooling, gregarious; thrives in schools |
Plant Safe | Yes |
Shrimp Safe | Moderate; may eat very small or newly‐hatched shrimp |
Jump Risk | Moderate; may jump if startled or stressed - secure, tight‐fitting lid recommended |
Diet | Omnivore – high‐quality flake/micro pellets, live/frozen daphnia & brine shrimp, bloodworms, vegetable matter |
Breeding | Egg scatterer over fine‐leaved plants or spawning mops; adults may eat eggs so separate breeding tank advised; moderate difficulty |
Min. Tank Size | 10 gal (38 L) minimum for small group; ideal: 20 gal (75 L) long or larger |
Min. Group Size | Absolute minimum 6; ideal 8–10+; 2 females for every male |
Temperature Range | 73–81 °F (23–27 °C) |
pH Range | 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral; stable) |
Hardness Range | 5–19 dGH (90–340 ppm); soft to medium; adapt to higher KH if stable |
TDS Range | 50–300 ppm, best 100–250 ppm |
Water Flow | Gentle to moderate; avoid strong current |
Water Tint | Clear to tea-stained (from tannins / leaf litter; “blackwater” beneficial but not essential) |
Lighting | Low to moderate; dappled, subdued; shade with floating & tall plants |
Preferred Biotope Decore | Driftwood, roots, leaf litter, dense stem plants, shaded areas to mimic shaded Sri Lankan forest streams, smooth river stones, floating plants. |
Key Wild Cohabitants | Other Puntius spp., rasboras, danios, freshwater shrimp, insect larvae |
Cherry Barbs are generally hardy and adaptable, particularly those bred for the aquarium trade; their health, color, and behavior are maximized in biotope-style tanks that closely mimic their natural origins.
Native Distribution and Habitat
Endemic Range: The Cherry Barb is endemic to southwestern Sri Lanka, specifically the Kelani and Nilwala river basins, along with smaller connecting drainages in the “wet zone.”
These basins span several lowland districts: Kalutara, Gampaha, Colombo, Matara, Galle, Ratnapura, and Kegalle.
Introduced, non-native populations exist in Central America, but these do not represent natural habitats.
Biotope Profile: The Cherry Barb inhabits shallow, slow-moving, forest streams and rivulets beneath dense evergreen rainforest. Streams are shaded, keeping water cool and light subdued. Water is clear or slightly tinted with tannins from leaf litter, soft, slightly acidic, and nutrient-poor. Substrates consist of fine, dark sand layered with organic detritus, fallen leaves, and decomposing wood.
Sri Lanka Wet-Zone Climate and Water Parameters
The southwestern wet zone of Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical rainforest climate, strongly influenced by the South-West Monsoon (March–August). Key climatic features include:
Annual Rainfall: 2,000–3,000 mm (with some localities exceeding 5,000 mm)
Temperature: Air temperature is stable year-round, typically 25–27°C, with minor variations. Water temperature remains similarly constant due to canopy shading.
Relative Humidity: High (average 70–80%), particularly in forested areas.
Seasonality: No significant dry period. Rainfall peaks in Southwest monsoon (May–September); frequent, short-duration thunderstorms possible in inter-monsoon periods.
Water Chemistry: The biotope sustains soft, slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.2), with low hardness (GH 1–10), and low conductivity. Streams are oligotrophic, and nutrient levels are kept low by forest cover and the influx of decomposing organic matter.
Kelani and Nilwala River Basins: Biotope Characteristics
Kelani River Basin
The Kelani River rises from the central highlands, courses through montane and lowland evergreen rainforest, and is characterized by its high biodiversity and endemism. Upper and middle basin streams sustain pristine habitats, with a rich variety of fish, aquatic plants, and invertebrates. Streams are:
Heavily shaded: Tall forest canopies limit sunlight, resulting in cooler, stable microclimates.
Clear water: Low turbidity, moderate to slow flow, often with sandy to silty beds covered in organic material.
Riparian vegetation: Abundant, with marginal and overhanging plants providing roots that stabilize stream banks and serve as refuges for fish.
Substrate: Fine sand, leaf litter, small stones, and twigs.
Nilwala River Basin
Originating in the Sinharaja Biosphere Reserve, the Nilwala drains hilly terrain before flowing into lowland rainforest and eventually the Indian Ocean. Characteristics mirror the Kelani with respect to flow, shading, and biodiversity, but climate change and land use changes (e.g., agriculture, sand mining, pollution) are visibly impacting water quality and habitat structure.
Microhabitats: Both river basins show broad microhabitat diversity, including:
Shallow marginal zones densely vegetated with shrubs and emergent plants.
Zones of slow flow with thick accumulations of leaf litter.
Occasional areas of open sand or gravel.
Submerged root tangles, logs, and fallen branches creating complexity and refugia.
Stream Substrate, Microhabitat, and Structure
Substrate:
Fine sand is the dominant substrate, but most natural sites are blanketed with a thick layer of organic detritus: decomposing leaves, twigs, bark, and wood.
Occasional patches of gravel or small stones may occur, especially in more open areas or where current accelerates.
Algal growth is limited due to light restriction, but biofilm and diatoms thrive in shaded conditions.
Leaf Litter and Microhabitats:
Leaf litter not only enriches the habitat structure but is a primary food source for many aquatic invertebrates and foraging fish species.
Submerged roots and overhanging vegetation reinforce streambanks, filter runoff, and provide additional shelter.
Fallen logs and driftwood increase habitat heterogeneity and are important for spawning and fry survival.
Water Color and Clarity:
Streams are generally clear, but may be slightly tea-colored from dissolved tannins, especially after heavy rains or in areas with abundant organic matter.
Native Sympatric Species
One of the most important aspects of replicating a Cherry Barb biotope is selecting suitable tankmates that naturally co-occur in their range. The following tables summarize fish, plant, and invertebrate species recorded from the same stream systems in Sri Lanka’s wet zone.
Table: Native Cohabiting Fish
Scientific Name | Common Name | Notes/Conservation Status |
Puntius titteya | Cherry Barb | Endemic, Vulnerable |
Rasboroides vaterifloris | Fire Rasbora / Pearly Rasbora | Endemic, EN/VU (locally rare) |
Pethia nigrofasciata | Black Ruby Barb | Endemic, Sensitive to decline |
Puntius bimaculatus | Two-Spotted Barb | Endemic |
Puntius kelumi | Kelumi Barb | Microendemic |
Dawkinsia singhala | Sinhala Barb | Endemic |
Schistura notostigma | Spot-Back Loach | Endemic |
Mystus vittatus | Striped Catfish | Indigenous |
Aplocheilus werneri | Werner’s Killifish | Endemic |
Channa orientalis | Ceylon Snakehead | Endemic, Predator |
Malpulutta kretseri | Ornate Paradise Fish | Endemic, Habitat Specialist |
Mastacembelus armatus | Tyre-Track Eel | Widespread, Non-threatened |
Garra ceylonensis | Ceylon Stonesucker | Endemic, Sensitive to decline |
Systomus asoka | Asoka Barb | Microendemic |
These species reflect a highly endemic fish fauna, with most species unable to survive outside Sri Lanka’s wet-zone forests. Some, like Channa orientalis, are predators, while others (e.g., Pethia nigrofasciata, Rasboroides vaterifloris) are small, peaceful shoaling fish suited to community aquaria.
Elaboration and Tank Suitability
A Cherry Barb biotope tank is most authentic and stable when built around a group of Cherry Barbs (6–10) with one or more of the following:
Rasboroides vaterifloris (Fire/Pearly Rasbora): A diminutive, shy schooling fish well-suited as a dither and color complement. Requires similar water, peaceful, can be added in a group of 8+.
Pethia nigrofasciata (Black Ruby Barb): Slightly larger, also peaceful, but may become boisterous if crowded or underfed. Groups of 5+ preferred.
Puntius bimaculatus and Puntius kelumi: Both are small barbs with similar habitat needs; add visual interest and fill different microhabitats within the lower water column.
Malpulutta kretseri and Aplocheilus werneri: Habitat specialists; only for large, complex setups due to territorial needs or surface-dwelling tendencies.
Predatory species (e.g., Channa orientalis, Mastacembelus armatus) are not recommended for typical community tanks due to their size and predatory instincts, but they illustrate native diversity.
Careful matching of these fish in captivity maximizes both authenticity and stability in the biotope aquarium.
Table: Native Aquatic Plants
Scientific Name | Common Name/Notes | Biotope Role |
Cryptocoryne wendtii | Sri Lankan crypt, endemic | Understory plant, marginal |
Lagenandra thwaitesii | Endemic aroid | Emergent/marginal, leaf cover |
Ludwigia adscendens | Floating/emergent stem plant | Marginal or floating stems |
Salvinia molesta | Floating fern | Creates shade, floating plant mat |
Pistia stratiotes | Water lettuce | Floating cover, oxygenates |
Nymphaea nouchali | Blue lotus (nat. flower) | Floating leaves, not dense clumps |
Marsilea quadrifolia | Four-leaf water clover | Marginal/foreground carpet |
Cryptocoryne beckettii | Sri Lankan crypt | Underwater, tolerant of shade |
Lasia spinosa | Kohila, edible aroid | Marginal/emer. structure, shade |
Balanocarpus kitulgalensis | Crit. endangered woody shrub | Riparian bank, roots and shade |
Note: Macrophytes (underwater plants) are generally uncommon in forest streams; most vegetation is provided by emergent and marginal plants with thick overhanging roots and leaves. Key aquarium plants for an authentic look are Cryptocoryne spp. and Lagenandra thwaitesii. Floating species such as Salvinia and Pistia offer diffused light as in the wild.
In lower reaches and agricultural areas, where sunlight is not blocked by the forest canopy, more macrophytes are found.
Context and Recommendations
To replicate the native stream’s structure, use dense marginal plantings with Cryptocoryne wendtii and Lagenandra thwaitesii at the sides, some Salvinia molesta or Pistia stratiotes as floating mats, and scatter some crypt leaves or small aquatic ferns for authenticity. Avoid dense underwater lawns or stem plant jungles; instead, aim for loose distribution and a more open central channel, reflecting natural scarcity of submerged plants.
Table: Native Aquatic Invertebrates
Taxa/Group | Example/Notes | Biotope Role |
Freshwater crabs | Perbrinckia cracens and others | Endemic, critically endangered detritivores |
Chironomid larvae | (Diptera) | Dominant invertebrate in leaf packs, detritus |
Coleoptera (Elmidae, etc) | Aquatic beetles | Associated with plant debris |
Trichoptera | Caddisflies | Shredders, scrap biofilm, detritus processes |
Ephemeroptera | Mayflies | Algivores, detritivores, important for fry food |
Molluscs (Planorbidae etc) | Snails | Graze biofilm, clean surfaces |
Odonata (dragonflies, damselflies) | Nymphs | Predatory, prey for larger native fish |
Ceratopogonidae | Biting midges | Larvae feed on detritus |
Context: Leaf pack decomposition in Sri Lankan rainforest streams supports abundant macroinvertebrates: chironomid larvae dominate, but mayflies, caddisflies, and aquatic beetles are also common. These invertebrates, many endemic, form the foundation of the food web for Cherry Barbs, which naturally feed on their larvae and detrital matter.
Recommendations for Biotope Tanks:
Add almond leaves or other natural leaf litter to support microfauna.
Consider introducing nerite or ramshorn snails to mimic natural grazers.
Avoid introducing predatory invertebrates unless focusing on advanced, large setups.
Natural Diet and Feeding Behavior
In the Wild
In the wild, Cherry Barbs are omnivores and opportunistic foragers. Their diet comprises:
Diatoms and green algae scraped from submerged surfaces.
Detritus, including decomposing leaf litter and associated microbes.
Small terrestrial and aquatic insects (notably Diptera larvae such as Chironomidae), insect eggs, and microcrustaceans (copepods, amphipods).
Worms, micro-worms, and occasionally zooplankton washed into the stream during rains.
Feeding occurs primarily in the morning, with Cherry Barbs foraging in shallow zones and amidst leaf packs and root tangles.
In Aquariums
Offer high-quality flakes with spirulina or other plant-based content as a staple.
Supplement with live foods (Daphnia, bloodworms, blackworms), frozen foods (brine shrimp, cyclops), and occasional blanched greens (zucchini, spinach) for fiber.
A mixed feeding schedule involving both protein and plant matter will best mimic their wild nutrition, enhance coloration, and promote robust immune responses.
Leaf Litter and Microbiofilm
Leaf litter and microbiofilm are key dietary sources in nature. Including botanicals and decomposing leaves in the tank encourages the growth of microfauna and biofilm, creating a naturalistic and nutrient-rich environment for both adults and fry.
Aquarium Care Parameters: Replicating the Biotope
Tank Size and Layout
Minimum: 20 gallons (80 liters); larger is better for group dynamics and stability.
Footprint: Prefer wider, shallow tanks (minimum 60 x 30 cm base), echoing shallow wild streams.
Water Chemistry
Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F), avoid rapid swings.
pH: 6.0–7.2, with slight acidity favored for wild-type strains; 6.5–7.0 ideal for biotope setups.
Hardness: 1–10 dGH; wild fish may prefer softer conditions.
Filtration: Moderate, with gentle flow to avoid stressing fish. Consider using a sponge or pre-filter to protect fry.
Oxygenation: Maintain high oxygen levels with surface agitation (via air stone, filter spillway); native streams are well-oxygenated due to canopy shade and water movement.
Substrate and Decor
Substrate: Fine dark sand or a sandy mix, covered with leaf litter, twigs, and occasional small stones.
Driftwood and roots: Use weathered wood and tangles to create hiding places and mimic natural microhabitats.
Leaf litter: Catappa/Indian almond, oak, or beech leaves all approximate submerged rainforest leaf packs and promote microbial growth.
Planting: Use marginal/understory plants only sparsely; focus on emergent/littoral styles. Provide floating plants for diffused light.
Lighting and Flow
Dim lighting, with floating plants or cover to mimic forest shade.
Use variable water flow to create calm zones and more turbulent stretches, reflecting the heterogeneity of Sri Lankan streams.
Water Quality
Perform 15–20% water changes weekly, using water conditioned for softness/acidity.
Test and monitor pH, temperature, nitrite, nitrate, and total dissolved solids (TDS), aiming for stability.
Use botanicals (leaves, cones) to provide humic substances and mild tannins, nurturing both water chemistry and microfauna.
Naturalistic Biotope Aquascaping
Core Elements
An authentic Cherry Barb biotope tank captures the essence of a Sri Lankan forest stream:
Background: Use natural or black backgrounds to simulate streambank shadow.
Substrate: Layer fine sand with a generous cover of natural leaf litter and scattered twigs, mimicking the forest floor.
Wood elements: Position driftwood, root tangles, or finger-like branches to evoke submerged forest debris and overhanging vegetation.
Plants: Insert clusters of Cryptocoryne wendtii, Lagenandra thwaitesii, or Marsilea quadrifolia among leaf litter and wood; add floating Salvinia molesta or Pistia to provide shade.
Marginal/Emergent elements: Recreate submerged stream banks using emersed planters or attach suitable ferns and epiphytes to wood above the waterline; emulate Ficus pumila as observed in modern biotope contests.
Rocks: Use no more than a few small, rounded stones to avoid overpowering the natural look.
Key Principles
Prioritize open “channel” space down the tank’s center for swimming.
Cluster logs, leaves, and plants toward the sides and rear to create cover and replicate the highly-structured stream edge ecology.
Aim for a slightly “messy” appearance: irregular, layered, and organic, not over-manicured.
The use of botanicals creates authentic texture and supports detritivore and microfauna populations essential for fry and adult fish alike.
Tankmates and Compatibility
Cherry Barbs are peaceful and inherently social. They flourish in groups (schooling), and thrive with tankmates that share their preference for gentle flow, soft acidic water, and subdued lighting.
Ideal Tankmates (biotope-accurate)
Rasboroides vaterifloris (Pearly/Fire Rasbora)
Pethia nigrofasciata (Black Ruby Barb)
Puntius bimaculatus, Puntius kelumi (other small barbs)
Schistura notostigma (Sri Lankan loach)
Malpulutta kretseri (Ornate Paradise Fish)
Aplocheilus werneri (surface-dwelling killifish)
Small catfish (native Mystus vittatus)
Nerite and ramshorn snails (invertebrates)
Non-Biotope Tankmate Options
Corydoras, Otocinclus, Harlequin Rasboras, Danios, Tetras, and Amano shrimp are broadly compatible, though not Sri Lankan natives.
Avoid
Predatory species such as Channa orientalis or Mastacembelus armatus in typical tanks.
Large, aggressive, or very active fish (Cichlids, large barbs, crayfish, freshwater crabs).
Dwarf shrimp if you want a breeding colony; adult Cherry Barbs may prey on shrimplets.
Group Dynamics
Maintain at least 6–8 Cherry Barbs to simulate schooling behavior and minimize stress. Males display brightest colors and most natural behaviors in mixed-gender groups, ideally with 2 females per male to reduce harassment and promote peace.
Breeding in Aquarium Conditions
Cherry Barbs are egg-scattering spawners that typically breed with little intervention, but maximizing fry survival requires a separate breeding setup:
Conditioning: Feed adults a diverse, protein-rich diet for at least a week; include live/frozen foods.
Breeding Setup: Use an additional dimly-lit tank with soft, acidic water at 26–28°C (79–82°F). Provide a dense mat of Java moss, fine-leaved plants, or spawning mops. Base substrate is typically bare, with either spawning mesh or marbles to protect eggs from predation.
Spawning: Introduce gravid females and one or two males. Spawning occurs shortly after dawn, with eggs scattered among plants.
After Spawning: Remove adults once eggs are visible, as they may eat both eggs and fry.
Incubation: Eggs hatch within 24–48 hours; fry become free-swimming in another 24–36 hours.
Feeding Fry: Begin with infusoria and paramecia, graduate to microworms and baby brine shrimp as fry grow.
Key notes:
Cherry Barbs demonstrate sexual dimorphism: males are more vividly colored, females rounder and paler.
In community tanks with heavy leaf litter and plant cover, some fry may survive without intervention, but yield is low.
Conservation Status and Habitat Threats
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (VU); population trend: decreasing.
Major Threats:
Habitat loss: Over 35% of southwestern Sri Lanka’s original rainforest was cleared between 1990–2005 for plantations (tea, rubber), with only 4.6% remaining as fragmented patches by 2006.
Water pollution: Runoff from agriculture, urbanization, hydropower projects, and sand mining degrades water quality.
Illegal collection: Despite export restrictions, wild Cherry Barbs continue to be extracted for the aquarium trade, with selective removal of the brightest individuals producing genetic bottlenecks.
Climate change: Changes in rainfall and flooding patterns affect stream stability and microhabitats, further threatening endemic fish and invertebrates.
Invasive species: Competition and predation from introduced fish have altered native community structures.
Conservation Action:
Preservation and restoration of remaining forest patches and riparian vegetation.
Enforcement of anti-poaching laws and regulation of the aquarium trade.
Promotion of ex-situ conservation (aquarium-bred populations).
Aquarists play a vital role: By choosing captive-bred Cherry Barbs and resisting wild-caught stock, aquarists support conservation efforts. Creating awareness of habitat threats through biotope aquaria further educates and inspires broader conservation action.
In Summary
The Cherry Barb’s captivating appearance and calm nature are best showcased in aquaria designed to echo the tranquil, shaded streams of Sri Lanka’s wet zone. By focusing on naturalistic substrate, carefully chosen native flora, and authentic community structures, aquarists not only promote thriving, vividly colored Cherry Barbs but also contribute to the ongoing appreciation and vital preservation of Southeast Asia’s unique aquatic biodiversity.
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