Our Guide To Keeping Five-banded Barb Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Desmopuntius pentazona
   • Common name: Five-banded Barb
   • Family: Cyprinidae
   • Origin: Southeast Asia
   • Adult length: 5 cm
   • Lifespan: 4 to 6 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Five-banded Barbs require a tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 75L is recommended for a small group of these fish.
   • Provide ample hiding places and areas with plants to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Java Moss, Water Wisteria, and Vallisneria.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Five-banded Barbs thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.

5. Diet:

   • Five-banded Barbs are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
   • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small insects to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.

6. Tank mates:

   • Five-banded Barbs are peaceful community fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to prevent stress and encourage their natural behaviors.
   • They are compatible with other peaceful fish species such as tetras, rasboras, danios, and peaceful barbs.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Five-banded Barbs are active swimmers and display shoaling behavior, so they feel more secure and exhibit their best colors when kept in a group.
   • Avoid keeping them with aggressive or territorial fish species that may bully or harm them.