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Originally posted 2009-11-05 00:40:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius lateristriga, better known as Spanner Barb, is an Asian freshwater species distributed in Southeast Asia, particularly in quick moving streams and rivers.   

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 23°C – 29C (72 – 84F)

Hardness: 8 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius lateristriga can reach a length of around 15 – 18 cm. Adult females have thicker bodies and are larger than males, and have less distinctive markings; males have a steep head in profile.  The Spanner Barb has a silver-grey body and two vertical black bars on the front of its body.  It also has a thin horizontal line that runs from the last bar to the caudal peduncle, resembling a T-shape.  This species is sometimes called the T-Barb for that reason.

Diet: Puntius lateristriga will eat most foods, but has a preference for live food. It will accept quality flakes and granules, but it should be given veggie matter and algae wafers as a supplement.

Breeding: This egg-scattering species can be spawned in a group or in pairs; condition the adults with live foods and move the pair to a separate breeding tank if choosing to spawn in pairs.  It might be a good idea to cover the base of the tank with mesh; the eggs will fall through the mesh and therefore cannibalisation can be avoided.  The fry will probably hatch in 24 – 48 hours and the fry, which will be free swimming 24 hours later, can be fed on Infusoria before moving on to microworm or nauplii.

Comments: You should tank this species in at least a 255 litre tank.  Puntius lateristriga will need a well-oxygenated tank and a power filter to replicate its natural environment: fast-flowing rivers.   Include a gravel or sand substrate along with plenty of hiding/spawning spots: rocks, in particular.

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Recommended Compatible Species: The Spanner Barb is lively and may intimidate shy species.  You could house it with rheophilic Asian fishes, including larger Danio, Davario, Garra, Barillus and Balitorine loaches. 

Originally posted 2010-01-18 09:43:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius lineatus, better known as Striped Barb, is an Asian freshwater species distributed in Malaysia and Indonesia, particularly in swamps, submerged grasses and in clear, black waters.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 23°C – 26C (73 – 79F)

Hardness: 10 – 14 dH

Description: Puntius lineatus can reach a length of around 5 – 6 cm. Adult females have thicker bodies, while males have more obvious markings on their bodies.

Diet: Puntius lineatus, an omnivorous species, will eat most foods, but has a definite preference for live food. It enjoys worms, insects, plant matter, crustaceans in the wild, but will also take quality flakes and granules in an aquarium environment.

Breeding: This egg-scattering species has very similar breeding requirements to Puntius lateristriga.  It can be spawned in a group or in pairs.  You should condition the adults with live foods and move a male and a female to a separate, dimly lit breeding tank if choosing to spawn in pairs.  It might be a good idea to cover the base of the tank with mesh; the eggs will fall through the mesh and therefore cannibalisation can be avoided.  Another option is to put Java moss plants or spawning mops in your tank to give the fish a spot to deposit the eggs.  The fry will probably hatch in 24 – 48 hours and the fry, which will be free swimming 24 hours later, can be fed on Infusoria before moving on to microworm or nauplii.

Comments: You should tank a small group of Puntius lineatus in at least a 70 litre tank.  Puntius lateristriga will need a well-oxygenated tank, dim lighting, bogwood, roots and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  Include a gravel or sand substrate so you can see this species’ bright colours properly.  This species is suitable for newcomers to the hobby.

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Recommended Compatible Species: The Striped Barb is a schooling species that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  Do not house it with larger, aggressive species; it can be kept with other Puntius fish, Rasboras, loaches, Gouramis and some members of the Trichogaster species. 

Originally posted 2010-01-21 11:23:36. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius partipentazona is an Asian freshwater species found in the Mekong, Mae Khlong and Chao Phraya basins in Thailand.  It has also been recorded in several coastal streams of southeast Thailand and Cambodia and in the Malay Peninsula.  .

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 25C (72 – 77F)

Hardness: 12 dH

Description: Puntius partipentazona, a diminutive species, can reach a length of around 4 cm. It has a silver-brownish colouration and three black vertical stripes on its body, with a fourth stripe across the eye.  It has a black blotch and a streak of red at the base of its dorsal fin.  This species is commonly confused for the Tiger Barb.

Diet: Puntius partipentazona is, like most Barbs, an omnivorous species, and will feed on plant matter, algae and other detritus in the wild.  It will eat most foods in a tank environment, including bloodworm, Daphnia, Spirulina flake, spinach or frozen peas.

Breeding: Puntius partipentazona is a substrate egg-scatterer.  It spawns its sticky eggs in dense plant growth.  Feed it a live food diet before you attempt the spawning process.  The water should be neutral; a sponge filter will provide a nice gentle bubbling to simulate its natural environment.   Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within a few days.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius partipentazona in a 27 litre tank.  It will need a dark substrate, dim lighting, and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  Add bogwood, twisted roots and plenty of plants to your tank.  This tiny species is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius partipentazona, a schooling species, should be kept in groups of about 8 – 10.  Similar to the Checkered Barb, you can house Puntius partipentazona with Corydoras, small Loricariids, most livebearers, danios, rasboras and peaceful tetras. 

Originally posted 2010-01-21 11:37:52. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius oligolepis, known commonly as Checkered Barb, is an Asian freshwater species endemic to Sumatra, Indonesia.  It appears in sluggish creeks, slow rivers and pools and lakes; it is apparently more plentiful at higher altitudes.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 20°C – 24C (68 – 75F)

Hardness: 2 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius oligolepis can reach a length of around 5 cm. It has a black and white checkered pattern, giving it its common name.  Females have thicker bodies and are less colourful than males; males have red-hued, black-outlined unpaired fins.  The average life expectancy of the Ruby Barb is 2 – 4 years.

Diet: Puntius oligolepis, an omnivorous species, will accept all flakes and pellets.  It will also enjoy special live-food treats – brine shrimp is well received – and an occasional helping of spirulina.

Breeding: The Checkered Barb is an egg-scattering species and a spawning mop should be included in the tank to catch the eggs.  It can be spawned in pairs or in a group; a group of six can be a good number for spawning.  Feed Puntius oligolepis plenty of live foods before you attempt the spawning process.  The water should be soft and acidic; a sponge filter will provide a nice gentle bubbling that will simulate its natural environment. The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within a few days.  You should keep the eggs and fry in a dimly lit environment in the early stages of life.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius oligolepis in a 27 litre tank.  It will need a dark substrate, subdued lighting, and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  This diminutive species is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

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Recommended Compatible Species: The Checkered Barb is a lively, schooling species that should be kept in groups of about 8 – 10.  You can house it with peaceful bottom-dwellers – Corydoras and small Loricariids are excellent options – as well as livebearers, danios, rasboras and peaceful tetras. 

Originally posted 2010-01-21 11:35:33. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Originally posted 2009-11-05 04:07:16. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius ticto, commonly known as Ticto Barb, is an Asian species found in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and Bangladesh, among still, shallow, muddy-bottomed rivers. 

PH: 6.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 14°C – 22C (57 – 72F)

Hardness: 3 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius ticto can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm.  It is a golden-silver colour and has a black spot just above the pectoral fin, with a second spot near the caudal.  Males have a brighter colouration and spotted dorsal, pelvic and anal fins; females, in contrast, are fatter and have a drabber colouration.    

Diet: This omnivore eats anything you give it in an aquarium environment.  A quality dried food product can serve as a base diet, but supplement this with live and frozen foods such as Daphnia and Artemia.

Breeding: Feed Puntius ticto on live foods before attempting to spawn them.  This egg-scattering species is easy to breed – best done in pairs – and will spawn in the morning time.  Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance.  The eggs will hatch in 24 – 30 hours and the fry will be swimming freely in a further 24 hours.  You should make small daily water changes – 10 to 20 per cent should be sufficient – until the fry has reached 3 – 4 months of age.

Comments: You should house a small group of Puntius ticto in an 89 litre tank.  Provide a heavily-planted tank – twisted roots, smooth rocks and stones – and a dark substrate.  It is advised you provide some surface vegetation, along with plenty of open area for swimming.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius ticto should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  It is a friendly species that works very well in a community tank, and can be kept with Danios, Gouramis, Rasboras, Loricariids and Corydoras.  Puntius ticto, unlike other Puntius, does not nip at the fins of longer-finned tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-24 19:24:43. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Sawbwa resplendens, also known as Sawbwa Barb, is a freshwater species found in Myanma’s Inle lake.  This species is all through the lake, including the surrounding swamps, and occurs in big shoals among dense vegetation in both clear and foul waters.

PH: 7.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 21°C – 25C (70 – 79F)

Hardness: 9 – 19 dH

Description: Rhodeus sericeus can reach a maximum length of around 2.5 cm. This streamlined fish is very easy to sex: females are silver with transparent fins; males have orange-red tail tips and a milky-blue coloured body.  This small-scaled species has a great colouration and a very peaceful demeanour.

Diet: Sawbwa resplendens, an omnivore, will require a good balance of foods.  Provide it with prepared foods and a smattering of live foods, including plankton and daphnia.

Breeding: This species appears to enjoy spawning in cooler temperatures; the females will leave their eggs in leaves and in spawning mops.  Remove the adults as soon as you see the eggs, as Sawbwa resplendens does not display any parental care.  There is not a great deal of information available regarding tank breeding.

Comments: Sawbwa resplendens will fight with each other unless housed in at least a 56 litre tank.  Your tank should be densely planted and have weak filtration.  It will prefer alkaline waters and should not be exposed to large fluctuations in temperature.  Put a lid on your tank to stop this fish from jumping out.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Sawbwa resplendens should be housed with similarly-sized species who can handle these specific water parameters.  You could house it with Danio erythromicron, Davario auropurpurea, Parambassis lala and Yunnanilus brevis.  

Originally posted 2010-01-26 11:04:47. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius everetti, commonly known as Clown Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Borneo and Sumatra.  It is  distributed through clear, slow-moving waters, in forest streams, in quiet shore areas and mostly in shallow waters.   

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 24°C – 30C (75 – 86F)

Hardness: 7 – 17 dH

Description: Puntius everetti can reach a maximum length of 15 cm.  This handsome species has a red-gold sheen, red fins and spotted bands, giving it its “clownish” appearance.  It may have some red in its irises.  Males are slimmer and more brightly coloured; females will get a plumper belly when spawning.  The Clown Barb can live from 5 – 8 years.

Diet: Puntius everetti is an omnivorous species – and not a fussy eater. In an aquarium environment, you should feed this species a quality flake and the occasional helping of brine shrimp or bloodworms.

Breeding: Puntius everetti should be conditioned on live foods for a month before you attempt to spawn.  This species is an egg scatterer and does not display parental care; remove the adults immediately once the eggs appear.  Provide a spawning mop or Java moss to a water level of 4 – 6 inches.  The fry will hatch in 20 – 30 days and can be fed Infusoria or crushed flake when they are swimming freely.

Comments: You should tank this species in a tank with a capacity of at least 30 gallons.  Add plenty of rocks, wood and roots to create hiding spaces, along with plenty of open swimming areas.  This fish can nibble on plants so make sure the ones you do have are relatively hardy.  Puntius everetti is an excellent community fish and comes highly recommended to beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Clown Barb is a lively schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  You could house this species with Danios, Barbs, Doradids, Loricariids, Corydoras, Loaches, and other similarly-sized species.

Originally posted 2010-01-18 08:35:34. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Originally posted 2009-11-05 23:03:38. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Originally posted 2009-11-07 02:59:39. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius cumingii, commonly known as Two-spot Barb, is a Sri Lankan freshwater species found mainly from Kelani to the Gin basins.  It was introduced into the Mahaweli basin and is now well distributed between Gampola and Ginigathena.  Yellow-finned species usually occur in flowing waters, close to the substrate, while red-finned species are found in the marshes of the Kelani Valley foothills.   

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 22°C – 27C (72 – 81F)

Hardness: 4 – 18 dH

Description: Puntius cumingii can reach a maximum length of 5 cm.  There are two types of Puntius cumingii: the red-finned and yellow-finned varieties.  The red-finned species will prefer a lower water current and will spend more time in the substrate than the yellow-fin.  Males are slimmer than females and have a brighter coloration. The Two-spot Barb can live up to six years.    

Diet: The Two-spot Barb is an omnivorous species that will feed on algae, detritus and plankton.  In an aquarium environment, you should add some sinking wafers as a supplement to these foods.

Breeding: Puntius cumingii, an egg scatterer, does not display parental care; remove the adults immediately once the eggs appear.  Provide a spawning mop or fine-leaved plants when attempting to breed the species.  This species can be spawned in groups if necessary.  Eggs will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and the fry can be fed on Infusoria before switching to freshly hatched brine shrimp at a later date.

Comments: You should tank this species in a tank with a capacity of at least 27 gallons.  Add plenty of driftwood branches, surface vegetation and hardy plant species to your tank, and leave large open swimming spaces.  You will need a dark substrate and dim lighting in order to see this species’ true colours.  The Two-spot Barb is fairly undemanding and is highly recommended to beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius cumingii is a lively schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  You could try housing this species with other Sri Lankan stream-dwellers, such as Devario aequipinnatus, Devario malabaricus, Puntius titteya, and Rasbora vaterifloris.

Originally posted 2010-01-18 08:32:32. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Originally posted 2009-11-05 01:04:57. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius filamentosus, better known as Blackspot Barb, is a south Asian freshwater species endemic to India, where it is distributed in lowland rivers, estuaries, reservoirs, clear streams, ponds and lakes.   

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 20°C – 24C (68 – 75F)

Hardness: 5 – 10 dH

Description: While Puntius filamentosus can reach a maximum length of 18 cm, its common length is around 11 cm. This species has a typical barb shape, large green-blue – often silver – scales, and a large spot on its flanks near the tail.  The tail is a distinctive scissor-shape with black and red tips.  Blackspot Barbs are tough to sex when young, but adult males are more colourful than females and have a less rounded belly and extended filaments to their dorsal fin rays.

Diet: Puntius filamentosus, an omnivore, will eat most foods. In an aquarium environment, you should feed this species regular meals of live and frozen foods – bloodworm, Daphnia and Artemia – along with quality flakes and granules.  Quality live foods will bring out a bright, dazzling colouration.

Breeding: This species will require a dimly-lit tank and fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop, along with a slow-moving current.  Puntius filamentosus will spawn at daybreak and will eat the eggs if given the chance; you should remove the parents as soon as you see eggs in your tank.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and can be fed on Infusoria before moving on to freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Comments: You should tank this species in a tank with a capacity of at least 108 litres, even larger if possible.  The Blackspot Barb will need good lighting and a dark substrate in order to show its best colours, and must be kept in well-oxygenated waters.  Decorate your tank with smooth rocks, live plants and twisted roots.  This active species is suitable for beginners.

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Recommended Compatible Species: The Twospot Barb is a lively, energetic schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  You could house it with slightly bigger Southeast Asian fish, including some Puntius species, larger Rasboras, Botiine loaches and danios.

Originally posted 2010-01-18 08:47:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Originally posted 2009-11-05 03:37:22. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius nigrofasciatus, better known as Ruby Barb, is an Asian freshwater species endemic to Sri Lanka.  It reportedly ranges between the Nilwala and Kelani river basins, mainly in the still waters of hilly areas.  It is also distributed in forest streams, ponds, pools and shady, vegetated areas.

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (71 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Puntius nigrofasciatus can reach a length of around 5 – 6 cm. It has a typical, high-backed Barb shape.  Males are silver/dark-blue to black and have a crimson head, and have more obvious markings on their bodies than females.  Adult females have duller colours and dark, vertical bars. The youngsters have a yellow-grey colouration and vertical stripes.  The average life expectancy of the Ruby Barb is five years.

Diet: Puntius nigrofasciatus, an omnivorous species, will accept flakes and pellets.  You should feed it a special treat of bloodworm and brine shrimp on a weekly basis.

Breeding: The Ruby Barb is an egg-scattering species.  Males will display a darker, more intense colouration than females; he will enhance these colours during the breeding period.  Male Ruby Barbs will circle the females during courtship; spawning will usually take place in fine-leafed plants.  It might be a good idea to cover the base of the tank with mesh; the eggs will fall through the mesh and therefore cannibalisation can be avoided.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within a few days.

Comments: You should tank a small group of Puntius nigrofasciatus in a tank at least 70 cm in length.  It will need plenty of open swimming space, well-oxygenated tank, subdued lighting, and surface vegetation to simulate its natural environment.  You should keep levels of organic waste to a minimum and keep this species in groups of no less than six.  This species is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Ruby Barb is a lively, schooling species that should be kept in groups of about 8 – 10.  It can be kept with most Danios, Rasboras, Tetras and Corydoras, as well as most Gouramis. 

Originally posted 2010-01-21 11:30:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Originally posted 2009-11-06 00:36:16. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius fasciatus, better known as Melon Barb, is an Asian freshwater species endemic to Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu in southern India, where it is distributed from the Kanyakumari district to the Maharashtra state in the north.  The Melon Barb is predominantly found in flowing rivers.   

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (72 – 79F)

Hardness: 7 – 17 dH

Description: Puntius fasciatus can reach a maximum length of 15 cm.  This species can range in colour depending on location: fish from highland areas are typically orange-coloured, while those at lower altitudes are normally purple or reddish.  Females are larger and fuller; males are more colourful and have a red or black colouration in their dorsal fin.  The Melon Barb can live for up to six years.    

Diet: Puntius fasciatus, an omnivore, is not a fussy eater. In an aquarium environment, you should feed this species a quality spirulina flake, along with bloodworms, brine shrimp or Daphnia as a special treat.  Quality live foods will bring out its best colouration.

Breeding: Puntius fasciatus has very similar breeding requirements to Puntius everetti.  This species will spawn at daybreak and you should check the tank in the mornings for evidence of eggs.  The Melon Barb, a group spawner, does not display parental care; remove the adults immediately once the eggs appear.  Provide a spawning mop or Java moss to your breeding tank.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and can be fed on Infusoria intially.

Comments: You should tank this species in a tank with a capacity of at least 85 litres.  Replace its natural environment by adding some water movement; this species resides in slow-flowing streams.  Decorate your tank with bogwood, twisted roots, floating vegetation and a few aquatic plants.  This active species is suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: The Melon Barb is a lively schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10; males will display a vibrant colouration when competing for the attention of females.  You could house this species with peaceful species, including some tetras, Rainbowfish, Anabantoids, Catfish and Loaches.

Originally posted 2010-01-18 08:45:20. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius vittatus, commonly known as Greenstripe Barb, is an Asian freshwater and brackish species found in India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan; it is distributed in ponds, lakes, streams and often in rice fields. 

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 20°C – 24C (68 – 75F)

Hardness: 8 – 15 dH

Description: Puntius vittatus can reach a maximum length of around 5 cm.  This silver-coloured species generally has four black spots; the dorsal has a black streak and black tip with orange elements.  This small-mouthed fish has no barbels but does have moderately large scales.

Diet: This species eats filamentous algae and blue-green algae in the wild.  It will probably accept most foods in an aquarium environment.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of breeding information on Puntius vittatus. Like most members of its genus, it will appreciate a dimly-lit tank and spawning mops so the females can deposit their eggs effectively.  It is probably a good idea to remove the adults as soon as you see the eggs in your tank.

Comments: You could probably house a small group of Kooli Barb in a 20 – 30 gallon tank.  This species is found in both brackish and freshwater environments and strict attention should be paid to water conditions.  There is not a lot of information available on Puntius vittatus and it is probably more suited to hobbyists with some experience under their belt.

Article/Books

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a lot of information on the Kooli Barb, but you should house it with peaceful, similarly-sized species.

Originally posted 2010-01-24 19:35:39. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius arulius, commonly known as Arulius Barb, is an Asian species found in India’s Cauvery basin, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Tambraparani river system; it is distributed in large streams, lakes and rivers.   

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 19°C – 25C (66 – 77F)

Hardness: 5 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius arulius can reach a maximum length of 12 cm. This species has a slender, elongated, torpedo-like shape.  Its colouration is a dark olive-brown, with lighter areas on the sides and a white ventral surface.  Males have silver bodies with some green areas, and three large black spots from the dorsal surface to the lower part of their lateral line region; females are mostly a rose-pink colour with some green-gold shimmers.  Both males and females have red edges to their caudal and anal fins and a dark dorsal; the fins are translucent and thin. Puntius arulius can live from 5 – 10 years.

Diet: Arulius Barb is most suited to quality flake and pellet foods.  You should offer it a supplement of bloodworms and brine shrimp to maintain its health.

Breeding: Puntius arulius, an egg-laying species, is quite easy to breed.  It can be spawned in pairs or in a group situation.  Make sure you condition to adults with plenty of live foods to maximise spawning capabilities.  Females will lay their sticky eggs on a rock – or a plant – and the male will fertilise the eggs.  Adults will eat the eggs if given the chance, so remove them as soon as you see the eggs in your tank.  The eggs will hatch in 24 – 48 hours; the fry will be free swimming 24 hours later.  You can feed the fry on Infusoria for the first few days, before starting them on microworm or nauplii.

Comments: You should tank this species in a 55 gallon tank.  Add plenty of vegetation to your tank, along with plenty of swimming space, and be careful with the water parameters; this species thrives in a well-oxygenated tank and will not appreciate too many temperature adjustments.  Provide rocks and broad-leaved plants for spawning sites.   Puntius arulius requires care and is suitable for hobbyists with some level of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius arulius can live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-18 08:05:42. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius asoka, commonly known as Asoka Barb, is an Sri Lankan freshwater species found in the Sitawaka River and its tributaries, and in Kelani.  It is distributed in deepish, fast-flowing water, usually in areas with gravel-sand substrates.   

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 25°C – 30C (77 – 86F)

Hardness: 1 – 18 dH

Description: Puntius asoka can reach a maximum length of 17 cm; its common length is around the 10 cm mark. This species is becoming very rare due to over-fishing; it is very restricted in its distribution.  As a result it is not very common in the aquarium hobby.

Diet: Puntius species are omnivorous and feed upon small invertebrates and plant matter in the wild.  Puntius asoka could be fed a staple of dried foods and flake, with the occasional live-food source thrown in.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information on the breeding habits of Asoka Barbs.  All Puntius species are egg scatterers and do not display any parental care; if you notice eggs scattered inside your tank you should remove the adults immediately to give the young a chance of survival.

Comments: You should tank this species in a medium-sized tank of around 55 gallons.  Add plenty of vegetation to your tank, along with plenty of swimming space, and be strict with your water parameters.  Provide rocks and broad-leaved plants for spawning sites if you are considering breeding this species.   Puntius asoka is rarely seen within the hobby and is suitable for those hobbyists with some experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not much information in terms of compatible species, but you should house Puntius asoka with fish of a similar-size and peaceful demeanour.  It would also suit a one-species tank.

Originally posted 2010-01-18 08:11:56. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Originally posted 2009-11-05 04:08:53. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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Originally posted 2009-11-07 01:12:53. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius conchonius, better known as Rosy Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and has been reported in Myanmar.  It is distributed in lakes and fast-flowing hill streams.   

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 18°C – 22C (64 – 72F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Puntius conchonius can reach a maximum length of 14 cm.  This barbel-less species has a slight lateral compression and a black spot near its caudal peduncle.  It has a copper to green-gold back and metallic, bright orange to red flanks.  Males, during spawning, turn a deep, bright red colour.  Females are slightly larger than males; this species is beautiful and undemanding, which makes it one of the most desirable aquarium fish available.   

Diet: The Rosy Barb is an omnivorous species that feeds upon worms, insects and crustaceans in the wild.  In an aquarium environment, Puntius conchonius could be fed a variety of flake foods in addition to this live-food diet.

Breeding: Puntius conchonius is an egg scatterer and does not display parental care; remove the adults immediately once the eggs appear.  The Rosy Barb will drop its eggs in densely planted areas.  Provide a marble substrate and a water level of 3 – 8 inches when attempting to breed.  This species can be spawned in a ratio of one male to two females; you should feed the adults up on live-foods to increase chances of effective spawning.  Eggs – hundreds of them – will hatch in 24 – 30 hours and the fry can be fed roftiers, liquid food and powdered flake food after the yolk sac stage has finished.

Comments: You should tank this species in a tank with a capacity of at least 20 gallons.  Add plenty of plant life to the corners of your tank and leave large open swimming spaces.  The main tank’s substrate should be either a fine gravel or sand.  You should make frequent partial water changes as opposed to large amounts of new water.  This is one of the easiest species to keep and is highly recommended to beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius conchonius is a lively schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  Avoid housing this boisterous species with quiet, shy fish.  Danios, Gouramis, Doradids, Loricariids and Loaches will all make excellent tank mates for this robust species.

Originally posted 2010-01-18 08:27:27. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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Originally posted 2009-11-05 04:01:18. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius tetrazona, commonly known as Tiger Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Sumatra and Borneo, in still and slow-moving rivers. 

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 20°C – 25C (68 – 77F)

Hardness: 3 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius tetrazona can reach a maximum length of around 8 cm.  It is a high-backed, barbel-less species.  Its back is brown to orange and the belly is white to silver in colour.  It has four bands across its body: one running through the eye and the last running along the bottom of the light-orange, transparent caudal fin.  Other fins, except for the black dorsal fin, are transparent with a tinge of orange.    

Diet: This omnivore eats anything you give it; flakes, vegetable foods, insect larvae, brine shrimp, Tubifex worms and insects are all good options.

Breeding: Feed Puntius tetrazona on live foods before attempting to spawn them.  This egg-scattering species is easy to breed, but don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance; alternatively you could distract the adults by feeding them white worms.  The eggs, which can number 500 – 1000, will hatch in 24 – 30 hours.  Puntius tetrazona will prefer neutral to soft water when breeding.

Comments: You should house a small group of Puntius tetrazona in a 10 gallon tank; larger fish can be kept in a 20 gallon tank.  Provide a sand or gravel substrate for burrowing, along with some smooth rocks and driftwood branches.  It is advised you provide plenty of open areas for swimming. Puntius tetrazona is a sensitive species that requires a moderate level of care.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius tetrazona can be kept with Danios, Gouramis, Doradids, Loricariids and loaches of a peaceful temperament.  Avoid housing this species with fish with long, flowing fins; a large tank will reduce Puntius tetrazona’s aggressiveness.

Originally posted 2010-01-21 19:50:45. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

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Originally posted 2009-11-05 00:43:00. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius titteya, commonly known as Cherry Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Sri Lanka’s Kelani and Nilwala basins; it is distributed in shaded streams and has a preference for shallow, slow-flowing waters. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 23°C – 27C (73 – 81F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Puntius titteya can reach a maximum length of around 5 cm.  This elongated species has a fawn-coloured, green-tinged top and a silver side and belly.  It has a distinctive horizontal stripe – brown-black to deep blue-black – that goes from its snout to its caudal fin.  Males are redder than females and become brightly coloured when breeding; females are lighter and have yellow fins.

Diet: This omnivore eats anything you give it in an aquarium environment; a quality dried food product can serve as a base diet, supplement this with live and frozen foods such as Daphnia and Artemia.  You should feed this species the same diet as Puntius tinto.

Breeding: Condition Puntius titteya on live foods before attempting to spawn them.  This egg-scattering species is easy to breed – best done in pairs – and you should provide a dim-lit tank and spawning mops so the females can deposit their eggs effectively.  The eggs will hatch in 24 – 36 hours and the fry will be swimming freely in a further 3 – 4 days.  Feed the fry on Infusoria before it is large enough to accept microworm or nauplii.

Comments: You should house a small group of Cherry Barb in a 70 litre tank.  Provide a river sand substrate, dimmed lighting and some driftwood to simulate its natural environment.  It is advised you provide some surface vegetation, along with plenty of open area for swimming.  These fish are easy to keep and are therefore suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius titteya should be kept in groups of at least six.  Keep it with small, community fish; Danios, Guppies and Glassfish are all good options.

Originally posted 2010-01-24 19:29:30. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius semifasciolatus, commonly known as Chinese Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found in Laos, Taiwan and Vietnam, as well as southwest China.  There are some feral populations in Singapore and Hawaii.  This species is usually distributed in flowing streams and tributaries.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 18°C – 24C (64 – 75F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Puntius semifasciolatus can reach a maximum length of around 8 cm; its common length is usually around 4 cm.  Adults have arched backs and short barbells on the corners of their mouth.  Their backs are a light to red-brown colour; sides are metallic green or yellow green.  This species has a white belly, which will turn bright red for males during mating time; females are bulkier and have a duller colouration. 

Diet: This omnivore eats worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter in the wild, but is easily fed in the aquarium.  It will enjoy regular live and frozen foods, including bloodworms, Daphnia and Artemia.

Breeding: Puntius semifasciolatus is an egg-scattering species and has similar breeding requirements to Puntius pentazona; you should definitely add spawning mops or Java moss to keep the eggs safe.  Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance; remove them straight after spawning.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and will become free swimming within 24 hours.  Do not perform drastic water changes during this time, and keep the level of light to a minimum.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius semifasciolatus in an 85 litre tank.  This species is very hardy and can suit many different water parameters.  A sand or gravel substrate, along with some smooth rocks and driftwood branches, can be added to the tank.  It is advised you provide plenty of open areas for swimming. Puntius semifasciolatus is a hardy, easy to manage species, making it suitable for beginnners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius semifasciolatus can be kept with other Barbs, Botine Loaches, Danionins and Rasboras of a peaceful temperament.  Keep this schooling species in a group of at least 8 – 10. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius pentazona, commonly known as Fiveband Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found from the Malay Peninsula to Sumatra, Indonesia.  It has also been recorded in Cambodia, Vietnam and Singapore; it mostly inhabits peat swamps and black water streams.

PH: 5.0 – 6.0

Temperature: 26°C – 29C (79 – 84F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Puntius pentazona can reach a length of around 9 cm. It is very similar in colouration to the Tiger Barb, five black vertical bands on an orange-gold body, but the black bars are thinner and the fish is not as high-bodied.  Males are slimmer and brighter than females.  This species is commonly confused for the Tiger Barb.  It may live anywhere between 5 – 8 years.

Diet: Puntius pentazona is a reasonably unfussy eater and, in the wild, preys on small invertebrates, zooplankton and crustaceans.  You can feed it a good dried product as a staple, along with live foods such as Daphnia or Artemia.

Breeding: Puntius pentazona is an egg-scattering species; you should add spawning mops or Java moss to keep the eggs safe.  Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance; remove them straight after spawning.  The fry will hatch in 24 – 30 hours and will become free swimming within 4 – 5 days.  Do not perform drastic water changes during this time.

Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius pentazona in a 27 litre tank.  A dark substrate and dim lighting will enable it to display its beautiful, natural colours.  You should put plenty of surface vegetation at the top of the tank, along with bogwood, twisted roots and peat fibre mixed into the substrate.  It is advised you provide plenty of open areas for swimming. Puntius pentazona is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius pentazona can be a nervous species and should be housed with slow-moving, non-aggressive species.  It should be kept in groups of at least five.  This species can be kept with other Barbs, Loaches and Rasboras of a peaceful temperament. 

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius hexazona, better known as Six-banded Barb, is an Asian freshwater species distributed in the Malaysian Peninsula, Borneo and Sumatra; it is found in the Mekong basin.   

PH: 6.0 – 6.5

Temperature: 20°C – 24C (68 – 75F)

Hardness: 5 – 10 dH

Description: Puntius hexazona can reach a maximum length of 6 cm. This species has six vertical stripes on a gold or orange coloured body.  This is a very rare species that is found in only a few streams in the central catchment forest.

Diet: Puntius hexazona will eat most foods. In an aquarium environment, you should feed this species regular meals of live and frozen foods, with quality flakes and granules.  This species will flourish if given a varied diet; do not simply feed it flake.

Breeding: There is not a lot of specific breeding information available on the Six-banded Barb, but we can assume it shares the same habits as the Five-banded Barb.  This egg-scattering species will require fine-leaved plants; the female will release 150 – 250 eggs and these will stick to the plants.  You will probably have to remove the parents as soon as you see eggs in your tank to avoid cannibalisation.  The fry will probably hatch around 30 hours later and can be fed on Infusoria before moving on to freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Comments: You should tank this species in at least a 20 gallon tank.  The Six-banded Barb will need good lighting and a dark substrate in order to show its best colours, and plenty of hiding spots in the form of roots, plants and rocks.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: There is not a great deal of information available on the Six-banded Barb, but it will probably be compatible with other mid-sized species.  Avoid housing it with large, aggressive fish.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Puntius bimaculatus, commonly known as Redside Barb, is a sub continental freshwater species found in the hill streams, dry-zone rivers and lowland swamps of India and Sri Lanka.  It has been recorded in the Bay of Bengal, including Andra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, southeast India, as well as all throughout Sri Lanka.   

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 24C (72 – 75F)

Hardness: 8 – 15 dH

Description: Puntius bimaculatus can reach a maximum length of 7 cm.  This species differs from other Indian Puntius in that it has seven branched dorsal rays – as opposed to eight – a round dorsal spot – as opposed to larger and oblong-shaped – and a spot on the base of its caudal area.  Males are slimmer and shorter than females, but are much more colourful.  Females do not have the red colouration on their flanks that gives this species its common name.   

Diet: Puntius bimaculatus is an omnivorous species that feeds upon organic detritus such as algae and diatoms in the wild.  In an aquarium environment, Puntius bimaculatus could be fed a staple of flakes and granules with the occasional live-food treat – Daphnia, Artemia and bloodworm – thrown in, along with some vegetable matter.

Breeding: The Redside Barb is easily bred, but fry should be raised in a separate tank to the adults.  This species is an egg scatterer and does not display parental care; if you notice eggs scattered inside your tank, you should remove the adults immediately.  Provide fine-leaved plants for Puntius bimaculatus to drop its eggs; another option is to cover your tank base with mesh to allow the eggs to fall through, safely out of the adults’ way.  Water should be soft and acidic, and provide a small sponge filter to generate a gentle bubbling.  This species can be spawned in a group; you should feed the adults up on live-foods to increase chances of effective spawning.  Eggs will hatch in 24 – 48 hours and the fry will be free swimming within another 24 hours.  Keep your tank in darkness if possible; the eggs and fry can be sensitive to bright light.

Comments: You should tank this species in a decent-sized tank of around 70 litres.  Add plenty of plant life to your tank – including pieces of bogwood, surface vegetation and roots – and provide some swimming space.  The Redside Barb is best kept in dim lighting and with a dark substrate, if possible.   This active species is moderately difficult to keep and is best suited to experienced hobbyists.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius bimaculatus is a schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 8 – 10.  Avoid housing this shy species with larger, boisterous tank mates.  Gouramis, similarly-sized barbs, Danios, Rasboras, Tetras and other peaceful bottom-dwellers will all make good tank mates.

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Information will be coming soon

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Information will be coming soon

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Information will be coming soon

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Information will be coming soon

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium

Information will be coming soon

Fish Tropical Fish Aquariums Fish experts Aquarium