The Rosy Red Glass Barb (Pethia conchonius variant) is a stunning and transparent-bodied freshwater fish that is a selectively bred variety of the Rosy Barb (Pethia conchonius). Known for its shimmering, glass-like appearance, this fish is a great addition to peaceful community aquariums due to its hardy nature and active swimming behavior.
Rosy Red Glass Barbs have a semi-transparent, pale pink to reddish body that allows some internal structures to be faintly visible, giving them a unique "glass-like" effect. Their fins often exhibit soft red or orange hues, with males generally displaying more intense coloration than females, especially during breeding. They grow to an average size of 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm), making them suitable for medium-sized aquariums.
These fish are peaceful, energetic, and social, best kept in schools of at least 5–6 to promote natural behavior and reduce stress. They thrive in a 20-gallon or larger tank with plenty of swimming space and a well-planted environment. While generally friendly, they can occasionally nip at the fins of slow-moving or long-finned tank mates, so ideal companions include danios, rasboras, tetras, and other small barbs.
Rosy Red Glass Barbs prefer water temperatures between 64–75°F (18–24°C), a pH range of 6.0–7.5, and moderate water hardness. They are omnivorous and require a varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
Easy to care for and visually captivating, the Rosy Red Glass Barb is an excellent choice for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. Their semi-transparent beauty, lively schooling behavior, and adaptability make them a fascinating addition to a well-maintained community tank.
