Shalyni Barb (Pethia shalynius)

Family: Cyprinidae

Shalyni Barb — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 4.5–6.6 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
4.5–6.6 cm
Minimum tank
52 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Pethia shalynius is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 4.5–6.6 cm of adult fish at 22–26 °C. Related profiles: 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 Shalyni 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 Shalyni Barb need?

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

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

Full size is 4.5–6.6 cm. Minimum tank: 52 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Shalyni Barb eat?

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

Can Shalyni Barb live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Shalyni Barb come from?

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

Does Shalyni Barb jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Shalyni Barb breed?

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