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.
Article/Books:
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
