Our Guide To Keeping Checkered Barb Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Oliotius oligolepis
   • Common name: Checkered Barb
   • Family: Cyprinidae
   • Origin: Sumatra, Indonesia
   • Adult length: 4 to 5 cm
   • Lifespan: 4 to 6 years
   • Diet: Omnivore
   • Care Level: Easy
   • Temperament: Peaceful

2. Tank Setup:

   • Checkered Barbs thrive in a well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas and subdued lighting.
   • Use soft, dark substrate and provide hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and bushy plants.
   • A minimum tank size of 60L is recommended for a group of these active fish.

3. Water Parameters:

   • They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
   • Ideal water temperature is between 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle to moderate water flow is suitable, replicating their native stream environments.
   • Use a quality filter that ensures stable water parameters and low ammonia levels.

5. Diet:

   • Checkered Barbs will accept most standard tropical fish foods, including flakes and micro pellets.
   • Enhance their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms for better coloration and vitality.

6. Tank mates:

   • They are compatible with other peaceful community fish such as small rasboras, tetras, danios, and dwarf corydoras.
   • Should be kept in groups of at least six to promote their natural schooling behavior and reduce stress.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Checkered Barbs are peaceful, social, and energetic swimmers that do best in a group.
   • They rarely show aggression and coexist well with similarly sized and tempered tank mates.