[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cyprinids – Golden Barb (Barbus semifasciolatus)

The burnished yellow body coloration of mature wild males has been developed by specialist breeders over the years into the widely available and very popular Golden or Schubert’s Barb, to such an extent that the true wild type of this species is now rarely found in shops. As this fish matures, the back can darken into a deep orange-red in some specimens, particularly in males. None of the names incorporating “schuberti” is a valid scientific name.

Other common names

• Schubert’s/Half- striped/Green Barb

Synonyms

• Puntius semifasciolatus, Capoeta semifasciolatus, Barbus schuberti, “Barbus schuberti, ” Barbus “schuberti”

Subfamily

• Cyprininae

Distribution

• Southern China.

Size

• Up to 4in (10cm) reported, but usually smaller.

Behavior

• Peaceful shoaler.

Diet

• All types of food accepted; vegetable supplement recommended.

Aquarium

• Swimming space with planted areas recommended. Water chemistry is not critical, but raw water should be avoided. Temperature range: 64-75°F(18-24°C); slightly higher for breeding.

Breeding

• Typical egg-scattering, egg-eating species. Hatching takes about 36 hours.