The Cherry Barb is a small, hardy, and peaceful freshwater fish known for its vibrant cherry-red coloration, especially in males, with a distinctive black lateral stripe. Growing up to 5 cm long, it is native to the slow-moving rivers of Sri Lanka. Males are slender and more intensely red, while females are more brownish and rounded, with more pronounced stripes. They are omnivores and are best kept in small groups in planted, community tanks with gentle water flow, making them a great fish for beginner aquarists.