Image of a Gold Barb, Barbodes semifasciolatus

Gold Barb

Barbodes semifasciolatus

Reviewed for accuracy · Last updated Jan 2, 2026, 4:14 PM

Gold Barbs are active and social schooling fish that display mild hierarchy, remaining peaceful when kept in groups and adequate space.

Key Information

Water Type

Freshwater

Temperament

Peaceful

Care Level

Easy

Minimum Tank Size

21 gal (80 L)

Maximum Size

3 in (6.5 cm)

Lifespan

5–7 years

Diet

Omnivore

Migration

Resident

Gold Barb Behavior and Compatibility

Gold Barbs are peaceful schooling fish that thrive with similarly tempered species. They should be kept in groups of at least six to spread social behavior. Larger groups reduce the chance of fin nipping.

Suitable tank mates include small to medium tetras and danios. Bottom dwellers like Corydoras catfish coexist without conflict. Loaches that enjoy similar temperatures are also compatible.

Avoid housing them with very aggressive or slow long-finned fish. Fin nipping may occur if space or group size is insufficient. A well planned community tank ensures harmonious behavior. Adequate swimming space benefits all species involved.

Best Tank Mates for Gold Barb

Gold Barb Tank Setup and Care

Gold Barbs are hardy freshwater fish well suited for beginners and community aquariums. They adapt easily to a wide range of stable water conditions when properly maintained. Consistent filtration and regular water changes are essential for long term health.

An aquarium with open swimming areas combined with plants creates an ideal environment. Hardy plants such as Java fern and Anubias tolerate their constant movement. Substrate can be sand or fine gravel without sharp edges.

They prefer cooler tropical temperatures compared to many barbs. Stable parameters are more important than chasing exact values. Good oxygenation supports their active metabolism. Avoid overcrowding to reduce stress and fin nipping.

Curiosities About the Gold Barb

Selective Breeding Origins

The bright golden coloration of the Gold Barb is the result of selective breeding from wild green forms, making it more vibrant than its natural counterparts.

Cooler Water Adaptability

Unlike many tropical barbs, the Gold Barb tolerates cooler water temperatures, which allows it to coexist with species such as the Zebra Danio in temperate community aquariums.

Gold Barb Diet and Feeding

Gold Barbs are omnivorous and accept a wide variety of prepared foods. High quality flakes or micro pellets should form the dietary base. Daily feeding in small portions prevents waste accumulation.

Supplement the diet with live or frozen foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp. These protein sources enhance coloration and overall vitality. Feed supplements several times per week rather than daily.

Vegetable matter is also important for digestive balance. Blanched spinach, zucchini, or spirulina-based foods work well. Remove uneaten food promptly to maintain water quality. Dietary variety is key for long term health.

More Interesting Facts About the Gold Barb

Social Bonding Behavior

The Gold Barb forms stable social hierarchies within schools, reducing aggression when kept alongside peaceful species like the Cherry Barb.

Mild Fin-Nipping Tendencies

While generally peaceful, the Gold Barb may show fin-nipping behavior if kept in small groups, especially when housed near slower fish such as the Betta Fish.

Gold Barb Breeding and Reproduction

Gold Barbs are egg scatterers and relatively easy to breed in captivity. Condition adults with high quality foods before spawning attempts. Spawning often occurs in slightly cooler, well oxygenated water.

A separate breeding tank increases fry survival rates. Use fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg deposition. Adults should be removed after spawning to prevent egg predation.

Eggs hatch within two to three days under optimal conditions. Fry initially feed on infusoria or commercial liquid fry food. Gradually introduce newly hatched brine shrimp as they grow. Regular small water changes support healthy development.

Gold Barb Water Parameters

64–75 °F (18–24 °C)
6.0–7.5
5–15 dGH
1.000–1.005 SG

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Frequent Questions About Gold Barb

  • What tank size is recommended for Gold Barb (Barbodes semifasciolatus)?

    A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for Gold Barb to allow active swimming and stable water conditions. Larger tanks are ideal for keeping groups of Gold Barb, as they reduce stress and promote natural schooling behavior.

  • What are the ideal care and water parameters for Gold Barb?

    Gold Barb adapt well to a wide range of conditions but prefer temperatures between 18–24°C and a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Consistent maintenance, moderate filtration, and open swimming areas are important for proper Gold Barb care.

  • What behavior is typical of Gold Barb (Barbodes semifasciolatus)?

    Gold Barb are active, peaceful fish known for constant movement and social interaction. They display confident behavior in groups, while isolated Gold Barb may become shy or less active.

  • What diet is best for Gold Barb?

    Gold Barb are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet of flakes, small pellets, frozen foods, and live foods. A balanced feeding routine supports coloration, energy levels, and overall health in Gold Barb.

  • Are Gold Barb schooling fish?

    Gold Barb are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals. Group housing encourages natural movement patterns and reduces fin-nipping behavior among Gold Barb.

  • Are Gold Barb compatible with community fish?

    Gold Barb are compatible with peaceful species such as Cherry Barb, Zebra Danio, and Corydoras Catfish. They should not be housed with aggressive species that may stress or harass Gold Barb.


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