Indigo Barb (Pethia setnai)

Family: Cyprinidae

Indigo Barb — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 4.3–6.3 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
4.3–6.3 cm
Minimum tank
48 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Pethia setnai of the family Cyprinidae is an aquarium-kept Cyprinidae. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins and omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter, it grows to 4.3–6.3 cm and prefers 22–26 °C water. Other Pethia species in our database include Pethia atra, Pethia conchonius, Pethia cumingii.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Indigo Barb easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Indigo Barb need?

Set the heater to 22–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6–7, GH 5–19 dGH suit it.

How big does Indigo Barb get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 4.3–6.3 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 48 litres.

What does Indigo Barb eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Indigo Barb live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Indigo Barb come from?

Found in clear streams and rivers over gravel; expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Indigo Barb jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Indigo Barb breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.