Odessa Barb Longfin 4cm

Odessa Barb Longfin

Few freshwater fish offer as much colour and movement as the Odessa Barb, and the Longfin variety takes this already spectacular species to another level. Combining the famous ruby-red body stripe with elegant, flowing fins, this selectively bred strain creates an incredible display when kept in schools. Their activity and constant interaction make them one of the most entertaining barbs available.

The Longfin Odessa Barb displays a metallic silver body overlaid with the signature bright crimson stripe that runs from the head to the tail. Mature males develop the strongest colours, while the elongated dorsal, caudal, and anal fins trail gracefully behind as they swim. Under aquarium lighting, the combination of metallic scales and flowing fins creates an almost shimmering effect that stands out beautifully against planted aquariums. Females are generally more subdued, displaying softer bronze and silver tones.

Sexing is straightforward, with males displaying the brilliant red stripe and much longer finnage, while females remain larger with a fuller body shape. Odessa Barbs are egg scatterers and will breed readily in mature aquariums with fine-leaved plants, although adults should be removed if fry are to be raised successfully.

Tank Recommendations for your Odessa Barb Longfin

Odessa Barbs should always be maintained in schools of six or more, with a minimum aquarium size of 120 litres recommended. These fish appreciate densely planted aquariums combined with generous open swimming space. Dark substrates and backgrounds greatly enhance the metallic body and brilliant red stripe.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Longfin Odessa Barbs are peaceful schooling fish that thrive in larger community aquariums.

Usually Compatible

Rainbowfish, Congo tetras, corydoras, bristlenose catfish, larger rasboras, and most peaceful medium-sized schooling fish.

Sometimes Compatible

Angelfish, gouramis, and slower-swimming community fish can coexist successfully in larger aquariums, provided the barbs are maintained in an adequate school.

Rarely Compatible

Long-finned Bettas, fancy guppies, and other delicate-finned species should be avoided due to the possibility of occasional fin nipping.

Feeding your Odessa Barb Longfin

These fish readily accept flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. The ideal diet would be a quality floating pellet or flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms, blackworms, and brine shrimp to maintain vibrant colours and healthy finnage.