Checkered Barb

Checkered Barb (Oliotius oligolepis)

Care level: Easy
Max Size: 5cm
Diet: Omnivore
Temp: 20-25°C
PH: 6-7
Purchase size: 3-3.5cm

Originating from South East Asia, the Checkered Barb is an often overlooked little barb because as a juvenile, it tends to be quite bland. As adults, the males will develop red fins and black lines around their dorsal and anal fins, offering a subtle beauty and elegance that compliments densely planted scapes and colourful tank mates. They are a peaceful shoaling species that should be maintained in a group of 6 or more specimens, preferably with the females outnumbering the males. Larger groups tend to deliver the best results as the males colour up to compete with each other. Like all barbs, they are prone to squabbling amongst themselves, but they seldom cause any damage to each other. Males will have their individual territories and they will spawn here as well. Checkered Barbs are quite willing breeders, spawning often. Some eggs and fry are likely to be eaten though.

The aquarium should be well planted with plenty of hiding spaces and areas to explore. The water should be soft and acidic, though these fish will tolerate quite a range of parameters.

Checkered Barbs ( Oliotius oligolepis ) are an excellent candidate for aquariums at the lower end of the tropical temperature scale as they really don't appreciate heat at all. Keep them with other sub-tropical species such as rainbow shiners, barbatus cories, Flame Tetras and tiger hillstream loaches.

Food can be offered in the form of pellets and fresh or frozen fish foods such as mysis, brine shrimp, blood worm and daphnia.

If you have any questions about keeping this fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise on best practice.

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