Gold Barb

Gold Barb Overview

• Scientific Name: Barbodes semifasciolatus (gold variant of the Chinese barb)

• Common Names: Gold Barb, Golden Barb, China Barb

• Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care

• Coloration: Bright gold to yellow body with a metallic sheen and subtle dark markings or stripes along the flanks

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and moderately active

• Swimming Level: Mid to bottom

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger preferred for a full group)

• Ideal Setup:

  • Soft, dark substrate to enhance color

  • Live or artificial plants

  • Driftwood, rocks, and hiding spots

  • Moderate water movement and filtration

• Lighting: Moderate — brings out golden hues

Gold barbs are quite hardy and adapt to a wide range of conditions, but stable, clean water is essential.

Diet

• Type: Omnivore

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily

• Preferred Foods:

  • High-quality flakes or micro pellets

  • Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia)

  • Vegetable matter (blanched spinach, zucchini)

  • Algae-based foods

A balanced diet helps keep colors vibrant and immunity strong.

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Temperament: Peaceful and social

• Best Kept In: Groups of 6 or more — schooling fish that show best behavior and coloration when kept in groups

• Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Tetras, rasboras, danios

  • Corydoras catfish

  • Gouramis, livebearers

  • Other peaceful barbs

• Avoid:

  • Large aggressive fish

  • Slow-finned fish (mild fin-nipping possible if bored or understocked)

Breeding Info

• Spawning Type: Egg scatterer

• Breeding Setup:

  • Use a separate tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops

  • Slightly lower water level and warmer temperatures (~78–80°F)

  • Remove adults after spawning — they may eat the eggs

• Fry Care:

  • Feed infusoria, then baby brine shrimp or powdered fry food

Special Care Tips

• Schooling Behavior: Gold barbs thrive in groups — keep at least 6 to reduce stress and promote natural activity

• Tank Decor: Avoid sharp edges — barbs are active swimmers

• Behavior: Generally peaceful, but can nip fins if bored or in small groups — always provide stimulation and space

Fun Fact

Although naturally olive green in the wild, the Gold Barb was developed through selective breeding and is now a favorite in home aquariums for its shimmering gold coloration and peaceful nature. They're a great alternative to more aggressive barbs like tiger barbs.