High Fin Rosy Barb
High Fin Rosy Barb (Pethia conchonius) is a selectively developed form in which the dorsal fin is substantially taller than in the standard Rosy Barb — an impressively high, sail-like dorsal that gives males a striking profile that stands out clearly in a school. In peak breeding condition, males fan this tall dorsal fin fully while displaying their vivid pink-red body coloration — a genuinely spectacular sight.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets and Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes make excellent daily staples — crush flakes for juveniles. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Vibra Bites to enhance the vivid pink-red coloration. Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp are a good additional treat for adults. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to a very wide range across South Asia — northern India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Afghanistan — making this one of the most geographically widespread barbs in the hobby. Wild fish inhabit a huge variety of habitats: mountain streams, rivers, ponds, and even rice paddies. This extraordinary range of native environments explains the species' legendary adaptability to aquarium conditions. Captive-bred stock is even more forgiving.
Keep in groups of at least six with a mix of males and females — a mixed group is important because males only develop their most vivid pink-red and gold coloration when competing for female attention. A group with multiple males displaying simultaneously is a genuinely striking sight. Active, fast-swimming, and always on the move, Rosy Barbs keep any aquarium lively. Compatible with most medium-sized, non-fin-nipping community fish.
Rosy Barbs are prolific and easy egg-scatterers that spawn readily in the aquarium among fine-leaved plants. Eggs and fry receive no parental care — in a well-planted community tank some fry will survive. For intentional breeding, a separate shallow tank with spawning mops or Java moss, slightly warmer water, and removal of adults after spawning gives the best results.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — active community fish |
| Typical Adult Size | 4.0 inches (10 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum — mixed sexes for best male color |
| Ideal Temp | 64–77°F (18–25°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets; Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Vibra Bites; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Northern India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan (captive-bred stock) |
| Notes | Tall sail-like dorsal fin is the defining feature. Males spread the high dorsal fully during display. Same hardiness and care as standard Rosy Barb. More dramatic profile than standard form. |
