How Fast Are Barbs?

[karawr]

I want to get some really fast fish to add to my 90g setup. They have to be fast because there's a turtle in there.

Before anyone says don't mix fish with turtles... I have successfully kept bala sharks and cae with my turtle for over a year now due to their fast swimming. He now no longer bothers them at all except for the quick 10sec chase every once and awhile.

I have no personal experience with barbs so was wondering if anyone could tell me how fast they are? I was thinking tiger or five banded barb (only because those are the only ones available to me locally). And would they be ok with the balas and cae?

Also side note: will be upgrading as the balas grow.


As for the congos... how long does it take for them to reach adult size (full colouration)? Is there any way for me to spot males vs females when they are all still young and silver?

Thanks!!

 

[laura120381]

hi there,

i have tiger barbs and they are very fast!! so are danios. know nothing about turtles so couldn't tell you if they would be compatible.

you would definitely need to make sure you have enough barbs in a group as they can be quite aggressive. hope someone can help you further.

L

 

[karawr]

Ok sounds good. I will wait for a couple more replies before I give it a go. I hope it works, I've been wanting barbs for awhile but don't want to add to my peaceful tropical setups!

Also I was thinking 10+. Of course a 90g will fit a very good school of barbs but I also have to consider space for my turt!

 

[Tizer]

I would avoid tigers, doesnt matter how many you have, they will still nip anything that doesnt fight back. Five banded are much more friendly and i can highly recommend them.

 

[creeker]

Here's the problem as I see it with turtles. I have kept them in with fish in the past. What I noticed is that when the lights go out at night, most fish rest quietly on or near the bottom. Turtles often feed in the dark, and they could eat the resting fish. I just don't think it's in the best interest of the fish to include a potential predator in there. Even if the turtle doesn't get them, they might be stressed by his presence. I suggest setting up a separate tank for turtles, filled part way, with things for them to climb out on and lounge around. You could add more turtles. Then just keep your other tank just for fish. You could put both tanks on a double stand set up. I think your Bala Sharks have been lucky, and that they are not in an ideal situation.

 

[KISSfn]

Tiger Barbs are extremely fast when they kick it into high gear! No idea if they would enjoy the company of a turtle though.

 

[karawr]

I decided to give it a go after consulting with turtle forums too. I saw lots of people who had success keeping barbs and turtles.

I understand the concern of stressing these fish out with a predator... but I honestly believe once my turtle gives up (which he has done with the others) they can live together fine... My balas swim around in front of his face and my cae even latch on for a ride sometimes. I also have plenty of hiding places and also places the turtle can't even get to so I think they'll be happy.

Thanks for the posts all.

 

[james_fish]

Oddessa barbs are pretty quick

James.