The Padamya Barb is a small, peaceful fish with vibrant colors, ideal for community tanks. It is native to Myanmar and known for its active daytime behavior.
Overview
The Padamya Barb (Pethia padamya) is a small, colorful fish native to the rivers of Myanmar. This peaceful species is well-regarded for its vibrant colors and lively daytime activity. Typically reaching a size of 5-7 cm, the Padamya Barb is an excellent choice for community tanks due to its calm demeanor and compatibility with other small, non-aggressive fish.
Tank Requirements
Padamya Barbs thrive in a well-maintained aquarium with a minimum volume of 80 liters. The ideal water temperature should range between 22-26°C, with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 and water hardness (GH) between 5-10. They prefer a tank setup with plenty of swimming space and gentle filtration. A well-planted aquarium with soft substrate and some hiding spots will provide a comfortable environment for these active fish. Regular water changes and good water quality are essential to keep them healthy.
Feeding and Diet
In the wild, Padamya Barbs feed on small insects, worms, and plant matter. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet consisting of high-quality flake foods, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp, and some vegetable matter. A balanced diet will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health. Feed them once or twice a day, and avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality issues.
Care and Maintenance
Regular care and maintenance are important for the health of Padamya Barbs. Perform weekly water changes of 20-25% to maintain water quality. Monitor the tank for any signs of stress or disease and address any issues promptly. Ensure the tank environment mimics their natural habitat with plenty of open swimming space and gentle filtration. Regular observation will help you keep an eye on their behavior and ensure they are thriving.
Compatibility
Padamya Barbs are peaceful and social fish that get along well with other small, non-aggressive species. They do well in community tanks with similar-sized fish and can be kept with other barbs, tetras, and peaceful bottom dwellers. Avoid keeping them with larger or more aggressive fish that might intimidate or harm them. Providing a well-structured tank with ample swimming space will help promote a harmonious environment.
Breeding
Breeding Padamya Barbs in captivity can be achieved with proper conditions. They are egg scatterers and typically spawn on fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. To encourage breeding, maintain a slightly higher water temperature around 24-26°C and provide a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. After spawning, the eggs should be monitored closely. The fry will need to be fed with infusoria or finely crushed food once they are free-swimming.