Puntius rohani 1,5 - (Puntius rohani) — 1,5-2cm

Overview

The Rohani Barb (Puntius rohani) is a small, peaceful shoaling barb that adds lively movement and subtle color to a planted community aquarium. Native to Southeast Asia (likely the Malay Peninsula or Indonesia region), this diminutive cyprinid inhabits slow-moving streams with soft, slightly acidic water and abundant vegetation. Despite data listing an adult size of 1.5cm, this appears unusually small—barbs typically grow larger, so aquarists should monitor growth and adjust care accordingly. With its peaceful temperament and moderate care requirements, the Rohani Barb is suitable for aquarists seeking an active, schooling species for smaller community setups. Available to buy freshwater fish online from Tropical Fish Co, this charming barb brings constant activity to the mid and upper water column.

Appearance

Rohani Barbs display a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body typical of small cyprinids, with subtle but attractive coloration that becomes more pronounced in well-maintained aquariums. The species exhibits delicate patterns and iridescent highlights that catch the light beautifully when fish move in synchronized shoals. Males may show slightly more intense coloration and slimmer profiles than females, particularly during breeding condition. Despite their small size, these barbs are active, alert, and constantly on the move, creating a sense of liveliness in the aquarium.

Natural Habitat

This species inhabits slow-moving streams, pools, and vegetated areas in Southeast Asia, likely in the Malay Peninsula or Indonesia region (exact native range is not well documented in the aquarium trade). In the wild, Rohani Barbs form shoals in shallow, vegetated areas with soft, slightly acidic water and a substrate of sand or leaf litter. The water in these habitats is typically warm (22-28°C), soft to moderately soft, and stained with tannins from decomposing organic matter. Replicating these calm, planted conditions in captivity supports the species' health and natural shoaling behavior.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum tank size of 40 litres is suitable for a small shoal of Rohani Barbs, providing adequate swimming space without overwhelming the fish. Structure the aquarium with abundant plants, including fast-growing species to provide cover and maintain water quality. Use driftwood and leaf litter to create natural hiding places and release beneficial tannins. Provide a dark sandy substrate that enhances the fish's subtle coloration. Ensure open swimming areas in the mid-water column, as shoaling barbs require space to display natural behaviors. Gentle to moderate filtration is appropriate, with minimal current to replicate the species' calm stream habitat.

Water Parameters

This species requires soft, slightly acidic to neutral water to thrive. Target pH between 6.0 and 7.5, with temperatures stable between 22-28°C. Water hardness should be low to moderate (3-10 dGH), replicating the soft water of Southeast Asian streams. Perform weekly water changes of 25-30% to maintain stable chemistry and excellent water quality. Test parameters regularly using liquid test kits, and avoid sudden fluctuations in pH or temperature. The species is sensitive to poor water quality and elevated nitrates, so invest in appropriate filtration and live plants to help maintain pristine conditions.

Feeding

Puntius rohani is an omnivore that feeds on small invertebrates, algae, and organic matter in the wild. In captivity, offer a varied small-particle diet of high-quality micro-pellets or flakes as a staple, supplemented regularly with frozen and live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and finely crushed bloodworms. Include some plant-based matter in the form of spirulina-based foods or blanched vegetables. Feed small portions twice daily, ensuring all fish in the shoal receive adequate nutrition. Avoid overfeeding, as small fish in small tanks are particularly vulnerable to water quality degradation from excess food.

Behaviour

This species displays peaceful, active shoaling behavior typical of small cyprinids. Rohani Barbs are constantly on the move, swimming in synchronized groups that create a mesmerizing display in the aquarium. The species feels most secure and displays natural behavior when kept in proper shoals of at least 8-10 individuals—smaller groups may become timid or stressed. Males may display subtle territorial behavior during spawning but are generally non-aggressive. The species is alert, curious, and will explore all levels of the aquarium, though they prefer the mid to upper water column.

Tank Mates

Compatible tank mates include other very small peaceful cyprinids such as small rasboras, small peaceful tetras, dwarf corydoras, and non-aggressive shrimp and snails (with caution, as barbs may nibble at small shrimp). Choose similarly sized, peaceful species that share the same water parameter requirements. Avoid housing with large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, or very large or boisterous tankmates that may intimidate or outcompete the small Rohani Barbs during feeding. The species' small size limits tankmate options significantly.

Breeding

Rohani Barbs are likely egg-scattering cyprinids that spawn among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Condition a breeding group with quality live and frozen foods, then set up a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water, fine-leaved plants, and a spawning grate or marbles to protect eggs from adult predation. Adults typically scatter eggs among plants and will eat eggs if given the opportunity, so remove adults after spawning. Eggs hatch within a few days, and fry are very small, requiring infusoria or liquid fry foods initially before progressing to newly hatched brine shrimp.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, we specialize in peaceful community fish, including small shoaling species like the Rohani Barb. Our fish are carefully quarantined and conditioned to ensure they arrive in excellent health, ready to thrive in your planted community aquarium. We provide expert guidance on shoal size, tank setup, and water chemistry to help you succeed with these charming and active barbs. With reliable UK delivery and a commitment to quality, we're your trusted source for community fish for sale and specialist schooling fish for aquarium.