Pethia Padamya

Datasheet

Behaviour

The Odessa Barb is generally very peaceful, making it an ideal resident in a well-researched community aquarium. It thrives alongside fishes inhabiting similar biotopes in nature, particularly comparably-sized, open water-dwelling cyprinids. However, other suitable tankmates include balitorid, cobitid, and nemacheilid loaches, as well as benthic cyprinids like Crossocheilus and Garra species. Keeping a mixed-sex group of at least 8-10 specimens is recommended, alongside adding other schooling fishes to provide security and a more natural-looking spectacle. Interestingly, the interaction between rival males can be captivating to observe, especially when they compete for female attention or hierarchical position.

Feeding and Diet

The Odessa Barb is likely a foraging omnivore, feeding on worms, insects, small invertebrates, plant material, and organic detritus in the wild. In an aquarium environment, it readily accepts a diet of small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, Daphnia, and Artemia, along with good quality dried flakes and granules. Including foods with additional plant or algal content is beneficial for their condition and to enhance their vibrant colors.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

As with most small cyprinids, the Odessa Barb is an egg-scattering free spawner without any parental care. To maximize breeding success, a controlled approach is recommended. Providing a separate, dimly lit tank with suitable spawning substrate or plants is ideal for egg deposition. When conditioned, introducing one or two pairs or a small group of males and females can stimulate spawning. Females will produce eggs that should hatch within 24-48 hours. Males are distinguished by their bright red-orange flank coloration, intense fin markings, while females are typically thicker-bodied with a plainer color pattern.

Habitat and Distribution

The Odessa Barb, scientifically known as Pethia Padamya, is found in central Myanmar. Its natural habitat comprises clear waters with minimal aquatic vegetation, flowing over limestone substrates resulting in a high pH level of around 11. The species is known to inhabit man-made ponds fed by small streams and lower stretches of the river Chindwin, a tributary of the Ayeyarwady River.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care of Odessa Barbs, a tank with a minimum size of 72 liters should be provided. While the choice of decor is not critical, they tend to exhibit better coloration in heavily planted tanks with a dark substrate. Adding floating plants and driftwood to diffuse light and create a natural ambiance is beneficial. Maintaining a water temperature between 16-25°C, pH of 6.5-8.5, and moderate water hardness between 90-357ppm is recommended. Filtration should provide a degree of water movement, and the species thrives in hill stream-type setups.