Chennai Sawfin Barb (Pethia sharmai)

Family: Cyprinidae

Chennai Sawfin Barb — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 2–3 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
2–3 cm
Minimum tank
25 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Pethia sharmai 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 2–3 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 Chennai Sawfin 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 Chennai Sawfin Barb need?

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

How big does Chennai Sawfin Barb get, and what tank size?

Full size is 2–3 cm. Minimum tank: 25 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Chennai Sawfin Barb eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Chennai Sawfin 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 Chennai Sawfin Barb come from?

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

Does Chennai Sawfin Barb jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Chennai Sawfin Barb breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.