Odessa Barb

Note: This variety has the ability to hide its color completely if it feels stressed or threatened by other tank mates or by the environment in the aquarium. Read the description to learn more on this special fish.

One of the most striking freshwater species is the beautiful Odessa Barb, a very hardy and active fish that can tolerate most water conditions and highly prized in the aquarium hobby for its distinct and vibrant colors. Males will develop a vivid and stunning color to their metallic scales while females are a bronze golden color. 

The Odessa Barb males can transform to appear bronze when stressed or bullied by other fish or if the water conditions are not suitable, they must be allowed to settle with safe tank mates in a cycled aquarium to enjoy them at their best. It is also preferable to keep this fish in a group of 6 or more with a mix of both males and females to encourage their attractive courting behavior which makes this fish unique.

The Odessa Barb is hardy with great ability to accept colder temperatures up to 16°C and accepts all kinds of fish food, we recommend rich diets to bring out the attractive bright coloration in adult males. Like most barbs, they are best kept with fish that are similar in size and temper. 

Fish Size Guide:

The 'Maximum Size' outlined below is the length this fish can reach as a full grown adult. For the actual size please use the select menu above.

Discus.ae prefers younger stock for their better ability to adapt to new water parameters and higher tolerance against transport. On rare occasions you may receive larger specimens when small fish are unavailable, however the smallest should be expected unless the size is noted as "Large" or "Adult".