More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 72 litres / 19.02 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 5.5cm / 2.17inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 5.04dgH / 90ppm |
| pH | 4.0-7.0 |
Behaviour
The Snakeskin Barb is recommended for peaceful community tanks in Southeast Asia, best with similar-sized cyprinids, cobitids, and certain anabantoids. It thrives in a group of at least 8-10 specimens, reducing skittishness and displaying vibrant colors during competition for mates. Aggressive tankmates should be avoided to prevent food competition as it is primarily a micropredator.
Feeding and Diet
In nature, the Snakeskin Barb feeds on small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton. In captivity, it accepts dried foods but should be supplemented with small live and frozen prey like Daphnia and Artemia. Regular feeding of these live foods enhances coloration and triggers breeding behavior in the fish.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
The Snakeskin Barb is an egg-scattering free spawner without parental care. Controlled breeding involves conditioning the adults in dimly lit, mature water tanks with suitable spawning substrates or plants. Females lay eggs that hatch in 24-36 hours, with fry becoming free-swimming after 3-4 days. Adult males are smaller, slimmer, and display more vivid colors than females.
Habitat and Distribution
Endemic to southern Kalimantan in Borneo, the Snakeskin Barb inhabits peat swamps, blackwater streams, and still waters with dense vegetation. Typically found in brown, humic acid-stained water with minimal minerals and pH levels as low as 3.0-4.0. Their habitats are characterized by fallen leaves, branches, submerged roots, and occasionally aquatic plants such as Cryptocoryne and Barcalaya.
Aquarium Setup
To best mimic its natural habitat, maintain the Snakeskin Barb in heavily planted tanks with soft substrates, roots, branches, and leaf litter. Suitable plants include Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, and Cryptocoryne species. Moderate lighting and filtration are essential, along with a water temperature of 20-28°C, pH of 4.0-7.0, and hardness of 18-90ppm. See the table for detailed water parameter ranges.