The Golden Red-Line Torpedo Barb is a dynamic and peaceful shoaling fish with a vivid golden body accented by the iconic red stripe—making it a standout in freshwater community tanks. These energetic swimmers thrive best in schools of at least six individuals housed in spacious, well-filtered aquariums (minimum 55 gallons, ideally longer than four feet) to mirror their native fast-flowing, oxygen-rich streams. They require clean, pristine water with strong circulation, moderate temperatures (approximately 65–80 °F / 18–27 °C), neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–8.0), and medium hardness. Include open swimming areas along with a few well-anchored hardy plants (like Anubias or Java fern), driftwood, and rock structures for shelter. These omnivores enjoy a varied diet—quality flakes or pellets supplemented with live/frozen fare and vegetables—and their voracious feeding can outcompete slower tankmates, so feeding strategies should accommodate this. Stable water conditions, ample oxygenation, and a secure lid complete the setup for their healthy, colorful display.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | Minimum 55 gal (~200 L); longer tanks (~4 ft+) preferred |
| Group Size | At least 6 individuals for natural schooling behavior |
| Temperature | 65–80 °F (18–27 °C) |
| pH Range | 6.5–8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline) |
| Water Hardness | Moderate (5–25 dGH) |
| Filtration & Flow | High flow and strong oxygenation—use spray bars, powerheads or jets |
| Substrate & Décor | Fine sand or gravel, open swimming space with hiding spots (hardy plants, driftwood, rocks) |
| Diet | Omnivorous; flakes/pellets plus live/frozen foods & vegetables |
| Behavior | Peaceful but fast; can outcompete sluggish tankmates at feeding |
| Water Quality | Clean, low in organic waste; frequent partial changes encouraged |
| Lifespan | Up to ~5 years with proper care |
| Lid | Secure cover required (known jumpers) |