Checker Barb (Oliotius oligolepis)

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Oliotius oligolepis

57 Litres (15 US G.)

3.8-5.1cm (1.5-2 ")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.5 - 7.2

22.2-26.7°C (72 -80 °F)

4-10 °d

1:2 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

Family

Cyprinidae

This animal is available captive bred





Additional names

Checkered Barb, Checkerboard Barb, Island Barb

Additional scientific names

Puntius oligolepis, Barbus oligolepis

Origin[edit]

Asia: Sumatra. Introduced populations in Colombia.

Sexing[edit]

Mature males have deeper red fins with contrasting dark edges. Females' fins appear closer to yellow.

Tank Compatibility[edit]

A peaceful barb that fares best in shoals of 5 or more of its own kind.

Diet[edit]

Will accept flake, sinking, and live foods. Omnivorous and generally not picky.

Environment Specifics[edit]

Appreciates plants and soft, mildly acidic water, but can acclimate to a variety of conditions as long as the tank is mature and changes aren't sudden.

Behaviour[edit]

Generally peaceful to other species, but males occasionally squabble with one another, especially if there are too few females to go around. Not afraid to roam all height levels of the aquarium, but is usually found near the bottom, idly picking algae and detritus off of the substrate and plants.

Identification[edit]

Typical torpedo shape, with slight roundness and lateral compression. Distinct black and silver scale pattern on the flanks resembles a checkerboard, hence the common name. Juveniles may have little fin colour, but mature females have yellow fins, and mature males have red fins with a distinct black outline.