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.
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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.
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