Checkerboard Barb Puntius oligolepis

Grows to: 2"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy and lively fish suitable for beginners.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that should be be purchased in groups of 4 or more.  Six or more is best.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look best with a dark substrate.  They swim in the mid region of the tank.  They enjoy a moderate water current.  Minimum tank size is about 10 gallons. (Temperature- 68-79),  (pH 6.0-7.2)

Tank mates:  They are active fish that should be kept with other active fish of similar size.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp and frozen foods.  Checkerboard barbs will show their best color after you have owned them for a few months and have given them a good diet.  They are an omnivore.

Natural Habitat:  Sumatra & Indonesia.   Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Males have red fins with black tips.

See also:  Barbs