Burmese Red Lipstick Barb (Pethia erythromycter)

The Lipstick Barb is a relative newcomer to the aquarium world, having first been imported around 2006. The species itself was only scientifically described in 2008. It’s most distinctive feature is a bright red marking ( the “lipstick”) present on the upper lip of males, with the remainder of the body possessing an attractive silvery hue. However, when males enter into their spawning coloration the body is said to turn to a beautiful inky blue.

This fish originates from the upper Ayeyarwady River basin in northern Myanmar, where it is thought to occupy a variety of lakes, streams and marshes. These waters are relatively warm and neutral in pH, helping to make this species adaptable to most aquarium conditions.

With a maximum size of just over one inch in length, the Lipstick barb is a fantastic choice for smaller community aquariums. P. erythromycter can safely be mixed with a wide variety of smaller freshwater fishes, like other barbs, tetras, loach, rainbowfishes and gouramis. As with most barbs, it is best to keep this species in a moderately large group of 6-10 specimens, which will encourage males to reach their fullest aesthetic potential and reduce any aggression that a lone individual could potentially show towards tankmates. A diet of dry and frozen foods, particularly those high in vegetable ingredients, will help bring specimens into breeding condition. However, this egg-layer will require some effort on the part of the aquarist to successfully breed it in captivity.