Flying Barb (Esomus danrica) is a beginner-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 70-80°F. A slim, silvery surface-dweller with a dark stripe and a pair of long barbels at the mouth. It is a fast swimmer and a champion jumper, so it needs a long tank and a snug lid.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Esomus danrica |
|---|---|
| Family | Danionidae |
| Origin | South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka) |
| Adult size | 3.5-4 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 70-80°F |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, very active |
| Social behavior | Schooling, keep 6+ |
| Swim level | Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Diet | Omnivore: floating flakes, micro pellets, small live and frozen foods, insects |
| Typical lifespan | 3-5 years |
Quick tips
- Use a tight lid; it leaps readily.
- Keep a school of six or more.
- Pair with other small, fast fish.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi