Checkered Barb
A small barb patterned in a neat checkerboard of dark-edged scales, the males developing red-flushed fins. Peaceful and easy.
Feeding
Flake, micro-pellets and frozen foods.
Compatibility
Peaceful, unlike the tiger barb. Keep in groups of eight or more with a mix of sexes.
Behaviour and personality
Active mid-water shoaler. Males display to one another and colour up when they do.
Before you buy
Tolerates cooler water than most tropical barbs. Males only reach full colour with females present.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Colour | Checkerboard pattern with red-flushed fins in males |
| Water Temperature | Tolerates cooler water |
| Group Size | Eight or more with mix of sexes |
FAQ
What kind of food do checkered barbs eat?
Flake, micro-pellets, and frozen foods.
Are checkered barbs compatible with other fish?
Yes, they are peaceful and can be kept with a mix of sexes in groups of eight or more.
Do males show colour only in the presence of females?
Yes, males only reach full colour when females are present.
Kylie McGrath –
These barbs are very active and peaceful. I kept them in a 20-gallon tank with other community fish. The males developed nice red fins after a few weeks when I added a female. They enjoy flake and frozen foods and don’t stress the tank.
Victor Cameron –
I bought them for a beginner tank. They’re easy to care for and don’t fight with other fish. The checkerboard pattern is unique and attractive. I noticed the colour change when I added a female to the group.
Keith Ferguson –
Great addition to a community tank. They swim actively in the middle of the water and are not aggressive. I feed them flake and frozen bloodworms daily. The males show more colour when there are females around.