🐟 Cherry Barb (Rohanella titteya, formerly Puntius titteya)
Freshwater Peaceful Schooling Barb • Cherry-Red Males • Sometimes Shy — Needs Plant Cover and a Group • Vulnerable in the Wild
 
📋 The Cherry Barb is a small, peaceful schooling barb endemic to the shaded forest streams of southwestern Sri Lanka. Mature males turn a deep cherry-red, especially when courting, while females are a softer, warmer tone. It was long known as Puntius titteya and has since been placed in its own genus, Rohanella.
It is peaceful but can be shy. Plants and shaded areas help it feel secure, and a group of at least six keeps it confident and active. Males display to each other, which is one of the pleasures of a well-kept group. A dark substrate, live plants and a varied diet all help bring out the red.
The species is Vulnerable in the wild, mainly from habitat loss, and Sri Lanka has restricted the export of wild fish since 1996. Cherry barbs in the aquarium trade are captive-bred.
 
💡 Highlights
✨ Cherry-Red Males: Deep red colour that deepens with good conditions
⚪ Peaceful and Sometimes Shy: Give them plants and a group
📏 Small: Typically 3–4cm, up to 5cm
👥 Schooling Fish: Best in groups of six or more
🌿 Suits Planted Tanks: Red against green looks striking