FishChecker

The Five-Band Barb (Desmopuntius pentazona) is a truly charming and vibrant addition to any peaceful community aquarium. Originating from the slow-moving waters of Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia, these small, active fish are renowned for their striking appearance and delightful schooling behavior. Growing to an average size of 1.5 to 2 inches (3.5-5 cm), their slender bodies feature a beautiful base coloration that can range from a silvery-gold to a warm reddish-brown, brilliantly accentuated by five distinct, vertical black bands that traverse their flanks. Their fins often display a subtle, reddish tint, adding to their allure. As a schooling species, Five-Band Barbs thrive and display their best colors and natural behaviors when kept in groups of six or more. A well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas is ideal, allowing them to dart and weave through vegetation while still having space to cruise. A dark substrate can significantly enhance their coloration. They are quite adaptable regarding water parameters, preferring soft to moderately hard water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and temperatures ranging from 72-78°F (22-26°C). They are omnivorous and will readily accept a varied diet of high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, and occasional treats of frozen or live brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Their peaceful temperament makes them excellent tank mates for other small, non-aggressive species such as various tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis. Hardy and relatively easy to care for, the Five-Band Barb is a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced aquarists looking to add a splash of color and constant activity to their aquatic display.