Cherry Barb Chasing

[shortymet55]

My male cherry barbs are starting to chase females (1:1 ratio). Never have done this before. I have not watched long enough to tell if its the same male chasing same female or not. All I can tell is its always a male chasing a female and when he female is out of sight, it stops chasing? Is this normal aggression?

Also, if he catches up, he doesnt really do anything. the female just turns around and he jumps in front, then she turns and he again moves in front. I saw one little nip at her, but that was it.

 

[DiscusKeeper403]

My male cherry barbs are starting to chase females (1:1 ratio). Never have done this before. I have not watched long enough to tell if its the same male chasing same female or not. All I can tell is its always a male chasing a female and when he female is out of sight, it stops chasing? Is this normal aggression?

Also, if he catches up, he doesnt really do anything. the female just turns around and he jumps in front, then she turns and he again moves in front. I saw one little nip at her, but that was it.

Not sure, but I have always heard you need to keep a ratio of 1 male to 2 or 3+ females. From what I hear, it is mostly to get the best color out of the males, but it might also be for agression reasons too. Again, not 100% sure though.

 

[shortymet55]

I read both 1:1 and 1:2 are fine, and the store sold them in pairs, so I just got a pair 1:1. I hope this wasn't a mistake.

 

[celaeno]

yep, it was a mistake. it's generally agreed to keep cherry barbs in a m/f ratio of 1/2, but i think 1/3+ is more appropriate so the females don't get too stressed from the constant chasing.

 

[ddiehn]

I agree with 1 male to 3 females...I have two males and five females...i've always heard 1 to 3...ish

 

[shortymet55]

Now Ive had them a bi of time and ive noticed this. Males dont really bother females. They just chase each other. Of course this can change as they get older.

 

[Axleuk]

Cherry Barbs chase each other. This is normal for the species, they are just playing. If you catch one having a cigarette then you know its just mated.