Fiveband barb

The fiveband barb is a small, deep-bodied cyprinid from the shaded blackwater streams and peat swamp forests of Southeast Asia. Its warm coppery body is crossed by five bold black vertical bars, and coloration intensifies dramatically in soft, acidic, tannin-stained water. Unlike its boisterous tiger barb relatives, it is comparatively shy and peaceful, but it must be kept in a shoal of at least eight to feel secure and display its best colors; isolated fish fade and hide. Suitable tankmates include other gentle blackwater species such as rasboras, small tetras and pygmy loaches. Aquascape with driftwood, leaf litter, dense planting and dim lighting to mimic its native biotope. Feed a varied omnivorous diet of small live and frozen foods, quality micropellets and flakes for optimal health and color.