The Veil Tail Cherry Barb is a long-fin ornamental variety of the Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya). It is popular in freshwater aquariums for its bright red coloration, peaceful nature, and elegant flowing fins. This variant is selectively bred from the standard Cherry Barb and is especially valued in planted community aquariums.

Basic Information

• Scientific name: Puntius titteya

• Common names: Cherry Barb, Veil Tail Cherry Barb, Longfin Cherry Barb

• Family: Cyprinidae

• Origin of species: Sri Lanka

• Type: Selectively bred ornamental variety

Wild Cherry Barbs naturally live in shaded forest streams with dense vegetation and slow water flow.

Size and Lifespan

• Adult size: 4–5 cm (1.6–2 inches)

• Lifespan: 4–7 years with proper care

The veil-tail version may grow slightly longer due to its extended fins.

Appearance

Key identifying traits:

• Deep cherry-red body (especially males)

• Long flowing dorsal, anal, and caudal fins

• Slender torpedo-shaped body

• Subtle dark lateral stripe along the body

Male

• Bright cherry red coloration

• Longer and more dramatic fins

• Slimmer body

Female

• Paler orange or brownish color

• Shorter fins

• Fuller belly

Males become extremely red during breeding.

Behavior and Temperament

Cherry Barbs are among the most peaceful barb species.

Typical behavior:

• Calm and non-aggressive

• Active mid-level swimmers

• Comfortable in planted aquariums

Unlike many barbs, they rarely nip fins, but the veil-tail variant’s long fins make them vulnerable to aggressive fish.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

Tank Size

• Minimum: 20 gallons

• Ideal: 30+ gallons for a group

Group Size

They are shoaling fish and should be kept in:

• 6–8 minimum

• 10+ preferred

Keeping them in groups reduces stress and enhances color.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 23–27°C (73–81°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: 2–15 dGH

Tank Environment

Best setup includes:

• Dense plants (Java fern, Anubias, Cryptocoryne)

• Driftwood

• Open swimming space

• Dark substrate

Plants help them feel secure and show stronger colors.

Diet

Cherry Barbs are omnivores.

Feed a varied diet:

• Quality flakes

• Micro pellets

• Frozen bloodworms

• Brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Vegetable foods (spirulina flakes)

Color-enhancing foods can help intensify the red coloration.

Tank Mates

Good tank mates include peaceful community fish:

• Neon Tetras

• Ember Tetras

• Harlequin Rasboras

• Corydoras

• Otocinclus

• Gouramis (peaceful species)

Avoid:

• Tiger Barbs

• Large cichlids

• Fin-nipping fish

Their long veil fins can attract fin nippers.

Breeding

Cherry Barbs are egg scatterers and relatively easy to breed.

Breeding Conditions

• Soft slightly acidic water

• Temperature around 26°C

• Dense plants or spawning moss

Spawning Process

1. Males display intense red coloration.

2. Courtship occurs among plants.

3. Female scatters 100–300 eggs.

4. Eggs hatch in 24–48 hours.

Parents do not guard eggs and may eat them, so breeders often remove adults.

Fry Care

Feed:

• Infusoria

• Liquid fry food

• Baby brine shrimp

Veil Tail vs Normal Cherry Barb

Interesting Facts

• Cherry Barbs were once endangered in the wild due to overcollection.

• Most aquarium specimens today are captive bred.

• Males can turn intensely crimson during mating displays.

• They are one of the few barb species considered peaceful community fish.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Size: ~5 cm

• Temperament: peaceful

• Tank: planted community aquarium

• Group size: 6–10

• Difficulty: beginner friendly