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.
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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.
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