Stoliczka barb
Pethia stoliczkana
The Stoliczka barb (Pethia stoliczkana) is a peaceful, active shoaling fish from parts of India, Myanmar, Thailand and Laos. It is often confused with Pethia ticto; a key distinction is the lateral line, complete in P. stoliczkana and incomplete in P. ticto. Seriously Fish gives about 5 cm standard length and recommends at least a 75 × 30 cm base, around 68 litres, with eight to ten fish. It appreciates clear, oxygen-rich water with some movement. A spacious, mature aquarium with sheltered edges helps the shoal feel secure. Observe the group after introduction and offer a varied diet in small portions.
Plan your aquarium →At a glance
- Temperature
- 18–26 °C
- pH
- 6.0–7.5
- GH
- 1–15 °dGH
- Aquarium length
- At least 75 cm
- Minimum aquarium volume
- At least 68 L
- Adult size
- Up to 5 cm
- Group size
- At least 8–10 individuals
- Temperament
- Peaceful
About this species
Seriously Fish uses Pethia stoliczkana (Day, 1871). Older literature and some databases also use Pethia or Puntius stoliczkanus. “Pearlscale barb” is sometimes used for a regional form, but a trade name does not prove origin. The fish usually has a barred or spotted pattern, which can vary between populations. When uncertain, check the complete lateral line and other taxonomic characters rather than colour alone.Natural habitat
Its range extends from Manipur in northeastern India through Myanmar and Thailand to western Laos. It mainly inhabits shaded, flowing headwaters and tributaries. Water there is often clear and oxygen-rich, over sand, gravel, rock, boulders and leaf litter. Branches, driftwood and marginal roots add structure; aquatic plants are mainly found in calmer sections.Aquarium and layout
Use at least a 75 × 30 cm base and about 68 litres for a shoal of eight to ten. Provide swimming room and sheltered margins with plants, wood and optional floating cover. The species appreciates some movement and good oxygenation, but extreme flow throughout the aquarium is unnecessary. A dark substrate may show the markings better. Mature the filter and secure the aquarium lid.Water conditions
Seriously Fish recommends 18–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5 and GH 1–15 dGH. Keep conditions stable and acclimate fish gradually. Its flowing-water habitat makes oxygen and water quality important, but does not prove that high flow is required everywhere. Match temperature and movement to the aquarium’s full community.Behaviour and group size
The Stoliczka barb is generally peaceful and social. Keep eight to ten together. Choose companions by adult size, swimming zone, activity, flow needs and water conditions; pH overlap alone does not establish compatibility. Similar-sized peaceful fish with suitable activity are the safer choice. Avoid species that repeatedly displace the barbs at feeding time.Feeding
In nature it forages on diatoms, algae, detritus, small insects, worms, crustaceans and zooplankton. Use complete flakes or fine granules with plant/algal content as a staple. Rotate suitable small portions of Daphnia, Artemia or other frozen/live foods. Distribute portions across the group and remove leftovers.Breeding
The species scatters eggs and provides no parental care. Fry may occasionally appear in a mature aquarium, but adults may eat eggs. For deliberate breeding, use a separate dimly lit tank with mesh, marbles, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops and remove adults after spawning. Seriously Fish reports hatching in 24–48 hours and free swimming roughly a day later; begin with infusoria-grade food.Suitable products
Recommended staple foods
Tropical Supervit Basic 100ml
Complete flakes as staple food for an omnivorous barb.
Check retailer for price0 retailers
View retailersSupplementary foods
Tropical Dafnia 100ml
Daphnia for supplementary variety alongside complete staple food.
Check retailer for price0 retailers
View retailersPrices from the latest retailer update, excluding shipping. Check stock and delivery with the retailer.
Sources & review
This care guide draws on several specialist sources and was last checked on .