The Six-Banded Barb, scientifically known as Desmopuntius hexazona, is a small and peaceful freshwater fish native to the slow-moving streams, rivers, and swamps of Southeast Asia, particularly in Borneo, Sumatra, and the Malay Peninsula. Known for its striking banded pattern and active schooling behavior, this species is a popular choice for community aquariums and biotope setups.

Physical Description

The Six-Banded Barb has a torpedo-shaped body with a golden-yellow to silvery base color, accented by six bold black vertical bands running along its sides. This striking pattern gives the fish its name and makes it an attractive addition to any tank. Its fins are mostly transparent, often displaying hints of orange or red. Adults typically grow to a manageable size of about 2.5 inches (6 centimeters), making them suitable for medium-sized aquariums.

Aquarium Setup

Six-Banded Barbs thrive in groups of at least six individuals, as their natural schooling behavior promotes activity and reduces stress. A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a small group, with larger tanks providing more space for dynamic swimming and larger schools. The tank should include a soft substrate, dense vegetation, and driftwood or rocks to create shaded areas and hiding spots. Floating plants can be added to diffuse light and replicate their natural habitat.

Water Parameters

To keep Six-Banded Barbs healthy, replicate their native water conditions:

• pH: 6.0 to 7.5

• Temperature: 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C)

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

Clean, well-oxygenated water is essential, so regular water changes and efficient filtration are necessary.

Diet

Six-Banded Barbs are omnivorous and have a hearty appetite. They readily accept a diet of high-quality flakes or micro-pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They also enjoy vegetable-based foods, such as spirulina flakes or blanched zucchini. A varied diet ensures vibrant coloration and overall health.

Temperament and Tank Mates

Six-Banded Barbs are peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish. They pair well with other barbs, tetras, rasboras, and bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish. Their active but non-aggressive nature makes them ideal for community tanks. Avoid housing them with large or predatory fish that may view them as food.

Breeding

Breeding Six-Banded Barbs in captivity is possible with proper care. They are egg scatterers and will spawn in densely planted tanks or over a spawning mop. To encourage spawning, feed them a protein-rich diet and maintain slightly acidic water. After spawning, the adults should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs hatch within 24 to 48 hours, and the fry become free-swimming a few days later. Infusoria or finely crushed fry food should be offered initially, followed by baby brine shrimp as the fry grow.

Summary

The Six-Banded Barb (Desmopuntius hexazona) is a visually striking and peaceful fish that adds activity and charm to community aquariums. With their striking banded pattern, manageable size, and compatibility with a variety of tank mates, they are an excellent choice for aquarists of all experience levels.