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Welcome to Sydney City Aquarium!
Checked Barbs - Oliotius oligolepis

Checked Barbs - Oliotius oligolepis

by Sydney City Aquarium
4.00 AUD - 6.00 AUD
6.00 AUD
4.00 AUD - 6.00 AUD
6.00 AUD

Checkered Barb is a small peaceful barb, which shows its best colours once it has been well settled in an aquarium. Its appearance whilst in a shops sales tank can be a little drab but given a good aquarium environment, any specimens will turn out as good as the best individuals on sale. The small size of the fish makes it ideal for smaller tanks where detail is everything. Provide dense planted areas and open swimming spaces. 

Size and Lifespan

These barbs grow to about 5 cm. With proper care, they live 4–6 years. Therefore, maintain soft, acidic water and a balanced diet to ensure longevity. Additionally, keeping them in groups of six or more promotes natural behavior, boosting their health and coloration.

Ideal Tank Setup

A 60-litre tank suits Checkered Barbs, with dense plants and shaded areas. Gentle water flow and efficient filtration are key. Furthermore, keep pH between 6.5–7.0 and temperature at 26–28°C. To replicate their natural habitat:

  • Add Java Moss or Anubias for cover.
  • Include bogwood for shade.
  • Ensure stable, soft water with weekly changes.

Compatible Tank Mates

These peaceful barbs thrive in groups, enhancing tank harmony. They pair well with small, non-aggressive species. However, avoid overly active or high-temperature fish. Suitable tank mates include:

  • Neon Tetras
  • Kuhli Loaches
  • White Cloud Mountain Minnows
  • Celestial Pearl Danios

Diet and Feeding

Checkered Barbs enjoy a varied omnivorous diet. Offer high-quality flakes or micropellets daily. Additionally, provide frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia. Supplement with green flakes for health. Consequently, feed small amounts twice daily to maintain their subtle colors and energy.

Breeding and Behaviour of Checkered Barb

Breeding these barbs requires a softwater tank. Males spar lightly to attract females. Provide Java Moss for egg-laying. After spawning, remove adults to protect eggs. Fry hatch in 36 hours, feeding on infusoria initially. Moreover, their calm schooling adds gentle charm to planted tanks.

Quick Faqs

  • Species: Oliotius oligolepis
  • Common Name: Checkered Barb
  • Origin: Indonesia
  • Diet: Omnivore
  • pH Range: 6.5–7.0
  • Temperature: Tropical 26–28°C
  • Breed Type: Egg-layer
  • Current Size: Approximately 3–4 cm
  • Max Size: Approximately 5 cm
  • Tank Size: Minimum 60 liters