The Odessa Barb (Pethia padamya) is a striking yet peaceful schooling barb that makes a fantastic addition to planted community aquariums, suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. As juveniles, Odessa Barbs are subtle and attractive, displaying a silvery body with faint markings; as they mature—especially males—they develop a vivid, ruby‑red horizontal stripe running the length of a metallic silver body, with contrasting black accents that intensify when kept in proper groups. Females remain slightly larger and more muted in color, creating a beautiful natural contrast within a school. Growing to around 2–2.5 inches as adults, these active fish are known for their calm, social temperament and do best in groups of six or more, where they show confident, non‑aggressive behavior. Odessa Barbs thrive in clean, well‑oxygenated freshwater with temperatures of approximately 70–79°F (21–26°C), a pH range of about 6.5–8.0, and moderate hardness, making them quite adaptable. They appreciate a planted aquarium with open swimming areas and gentle flow, and their omnivorous diet allows them to accept a wide range of quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. With their peaceful nature, manageable care requirements, and exceptional adult coloration, Odessa Barbs are an eye‑catching, lively choice for a harmonious community tank.  These fish look their best on dark substrate and plenty of places to hide.  When they have plenty of places to hide, they typically come out into the open more.
 
These fish are from the Greg Sage strain in the United States.