Cherry Barb bottom feeders?

Hi. I'm new here & this question has probably been asked before but I am very curious.

I have had my tank set up for just over a month now, and I have one Cherry Barb and one Dwarf Gourami. My Dwarf Gourami is very active and is very fun to watch! On the other hand, my Cherry Barb isn't quit as active. Every now and then you will see him scoot around and swim around a little bit, but mostly he just stays still. During feeding time the Dwarf Gourami comes right up to the top and just about takes the food right from my fingers, but I hardly see the Cherry Barb.

Today was the first time I seen him out when it was feeding time, and he just ate the pieces that went to the bottom. Is this normal? Or do they usually come up to the top for the food?

Thanks

 

Your Barb is acting this way because they are schooling fish. They need to be in groups of 6 or more. Cherries are mostly bottom feeders, yes, but will pretty much eat anything for anywhere. I would suggest upgrading to atleast a 20 long, and getting 5 or so more Barbs. Every one will love it =)

 

Maarie, IMHO a ten gallon tank is very inadequate for Barbs. They are schooling fish, and would do better in a much, much larger tank with another 5 or so tank-mates. Not trying to be mean at all, we have all been there, but 10 gallon is no good for this species. Can you re-home him and get some fish that will just be delightful in your tank.

 

Welcome to the forum!

I agree, good advice from Akari

 

Thanks for the advice!

 

Thanks for the advice!

You're welcome! =)

 

good advice from akari, she is correct on suggesting a bigger tank for the cherry barbs, I would also suggest that for the DG... also it seems from your profile you do not know the nitrogen cycle, learning on why it is important is crucial to this hobby, it 'will' save your fishes life.

since you have fish, a lot of fishlorians have had great experiences with a product called 'Tetra Safe Start', here is a link https://www.fishlore.com/aquariumfishforum/threads/q-a-with-tetra-about-tetra-safestart.58116/

as for your parameters, a liquid test kit is best and most accurate, we recommend 'API Freshwater Master Kit'

good luck and keep us updated and please update your info ASAP!!!

 

Hello Maarie and Welcome to Fish Lore!

I hope you enjoy the site.

Ken