Pentazona Barb

Origin: Southeast Asia – Indonesia and the Malay Peninsula.

Adult Size: Around 5–6 cm (about 2–2.5 inches).

Temperament:
Peaceful community fish. Unlike Tiger Barbs, Pentazona Barbs are much calmer and rarely cause problems in a community aquarium.

Group Size:
These are shoaling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6–8. Larger groups often show better colour and more natural behaviour.

Tank Setup:
They enjoy planted aquariums with open swimming space and areas to hide. Adding plants, driftwood, or natural decorations helps them feel secure.

Water Conditions:
Typical care guidelines:

• Temperature: 22–26°C

• pH: around 6.0–7.0

• Soft to moderate hardness

• Well-oxygenated water with gentle to moderate flow

Fish at Friendly Fish Aquatics have already been acclimatised to local water conditions in Harlow and Essex, so most hobbyists can keep them successfully in normal tap water.

Tank Mates:
Pentazona Barbs work well in peaceful community tanks with species such as:

• Rasboras

• Small Tetras

• Corydoras Catfish

• Kuhli Loaches

• Peaceful Gourami species

• Otocinclus

Avoid aggressive fish or species known for heavy fin-nipping.

Did You Know?
Many fish sold as Pentazona Barbs are actually a very similar species called the Six-Banded Barb (Desmopuntius hexazona). The two look extremely alike and share almost identical care requirements.

Friendly Fish Tip:
Keeping larger groups of schooling fish creates a much more natural display and often brings out their best colours.