Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I recently got 4 rhambo barbs. I was told at the pet store that they can be difficult to keep alive. I have read as much as I can about them online, but unfortunately there are not a lot of sites with info. I have read that they like nitrates as low as possible, and I am trying to get them close to 0. I have also given away a few of my fish because I was worried about being overstocked and raising the nitrates. (nitrite and ammonia i always keep at 0). I used to change the water with just treated tap water, but I am goign to start using half distilled water for my changes. I do about 10-15% change every week. The temp stays at 77-78*F.
I am wondering if anyone has any personal experience with these wonderful fish and would be willing to share any tricks/secrets with me? Also, if I seem to be doing anything wrong please let me know. I want to keep them alive, they are absolutely wonderful.
I'm going to attach a pic. From the few pics I have seen online they are rhambo barbs, but if someone thinks they were mislabelled let me know please! (its not a good pic, and shows the tail end of my tiger barb more than anything but it's all i've got for now)

The only thing I can tell you is you shouldn't use distilled water, but rather use spring water.
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Phishie

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."