Six-Banded Tiger Barb

Desmopuntius hexazona (Six-Banded Tiger Barb) is a slender and elegant barb from Sumatra and Borneo with six distinctive black vertical bands on a golden body. Unlike the common Tiger Barb, this species is notably more peaceful and substantially less prone to fin-nipping, making it suitable for planted community aquariums alongside species that the common Tiger Barb would harass. Thrives in soft, slightly acidic water typical of blackwater forest streams.

Keep in groups of 8 or more for natural schooling behaviour. Provide soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.5–7.0, GH <8) with some tannin staining. Feed quality flake, micro pellets, frozen bloodworm, and Daphnia. More peaceful than the common Tiger Barb but still best kept in appropriate-sized groups. Provide good planting and subdued lighting for best colouration.