Golden Dwarf Barb

Scientific name: Barbus gelius (often also listed as Puntius gelius)

Golden Dwarf Barb is a small, peaceful cyprinid prized for its shimmering gold-and-black pattern and suitability for nano and planted aquariums.

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Quick Profile

• Adult size: ~1.5–2 cm (0.6–0.8 in)
• Lifespan: 4–6 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
• Origin: Northern India (slow-moving streams, ponds)
• Swimming level: Mid-water

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Appearance

• Translucent golden body with three distinct black blotches along the flank
• Clear to slightly yellow fins
• Subtle sexual dimorphism: females are slightly larger and rounder; males may show stronger coloration when settled

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Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank: 40 L / 10 gallons (larger is better for groups)
• School size: 8–12+ (they are shy in small numbers)
• Aquascape:
  • Heavily planted with fine-leaf plants
  • Open swimming areas
  • Dark substrate enhances coloration
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• Filtration: Gentle flow preferred

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–26 °C (68–79 °F)
• pH: 6.0–7.2
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–10 dGH)
• Stability is more important than chasing exact numbers

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Diet

Omnivorous micro-feeder:

• High-quality micro pellets or flakes
• Live/frozen foods: daphnia, cyclops, baby brine shrimp
• Occasional powdered algae or spirulina

Feed small amounts once or twice daily; overfeeding dulls color and affects water quality.

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Behavior & Tankmates

• Very peaceful; will not nip fins
• Best with other small, calm species, such as:
  • Chili rasboras (Boraras spp.)
  • Ember tetras
  • Pygmy corydoras
  • Small shrimp (generally shrimp-safe, especially adults)

Avoid large, boisterous fish that may outcompete or stress them.

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Breeding (Brief Overview)

• Egg scatterers; no parental care
• Best results in a species-only breeding tank
• Fine-leaf plants or spawning mops required
• Remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation
• Fry are extremely small and need infusoria or liquid fry food initially

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