ruisseau - Discover fishes living in these biotopes

The cherry barb is a small freshwater fish endemic to the wet region of the lowlands in Sri Lanka. The males, cherry-colored, have long been intensively captured for the aquarium trade. The export of this fish is now better regulated, but it remains vulnerable to changes in its environment. The main causes: agricultural pollution, hydroelectric projects, and deforestation.

It is carnivorous, its sharp teeth have earned it the local name. (Pira = fish, Nha = tooth). Its dangerousness was often exaggerated: it serves as prey of many animals (alligators, giant otter ...). Piranhas are especially dangerous for humans in the dry season, when they lack food.

This fish is well known in our ponds. The reproduction in this species occurs from May to June, the females lay up to 200,000 eggs on vegetation near the banks. This fish can hybridize with many other species that breed at the same time as it (Roach, Bremen, Bleak ...).

It is very easy to keep in aquariums, it reproduces easily. Eggs are laid in the vegetation and hatch after 30 hours. The alevin are very active and like to eat.