Spotted barbus
The variegated barb, scientific name Enteromius callipterus, belongs to the family Cyprinidae (Cyprinidae). First discovered by European biologists in 1907. Originally recorded as Barbus callipterus. The fish comes from the African continent. The natural habitat is limited to river stems in Côte d’Ivoire, Chad, Nigeria and Cameroon.
Description
Adults reach a length of up to 9 cm. The fish has large steel-colored scales. A characteristic feature of the species is a variegated red-orange dorsal fin with a black mark.
Sexual dimorphism is weakly expressed. Females look somewhat larger, which is especially evident during the spawning period.
Brief information:
- The volume of the aquarium – from 200 liters.
- Temperature – 19-25°C
- Value pH — 6.0–7.0
- Water hardness – 3–12 dGH
- Substrate type – any dark
- Lighting – subdued
- Brackish water – no
- Water movement – light or moderate
- The size of the fish is about 9 cm.
- Food – any food
- Temperament – peaceful
- Keeping a group of 6–8 individuals
Maintenance and care, arrangement of the aquarium
The optimal size of the aquarium for a flock of 6-8 individuals starts from 150-200 liters. The design must provide free areas for swimming and places for shelters in the form of thickets of plants. The variegated barb is not only a good swimmer, but is also capable of jumping out of the water. To prevent accidental jumping, floating plants are used and the tank is covered with a lid.
It is noted that bright light negatively affects the color of fish. A subdued level of lighting is considered the most acceptable, in addition, it is desirable to use a dark substrate in the design.
Successful long-term keeping depends on the regular maintenance of the aquarium and the correct choice of diet.
Food
An omnivorous species, will accept most popular dry, frozen and live foods.
Behavior and Compatibility
An active peaceful fish. It is recommended to keep in a flock. In this case, all activity will be concentrated within the group. Otherwise, barbs can bother other aquarium neighbors. Compatible with many species of comparable size and temperament.
