What We Love About This Fish:
- Striking vertical black bars over a silvery body create dramatic visual contrast in juvenile stages
- Matures into a powerful, commanding swimmer with strong river-fish presence
- Brings dynamic motion and scale to large aquarium environments
- Perfect for aquarists who value boldness, energy, and visual impact
Product Specifications
| Species | Distichodus sexfasciatus |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Six-Barred Distichodus |
| Origin | African rivers |
| Size (adult) | Up to 12 inches |
| Water Temperature | 72°F – 82°F |
| Water pH | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Water Hardness | Soft to moderately hard |
For the safety of our animals, we now ship live fish exclusively via UPS Next Day Air. If your order contains this item, you will only see UPS Next Day Air as a shipping option during checkout.
FAQ
What is the typical size of a Six-Barred Distichodus when mature?
Adult Six-Barred Distichodus can grow up to 12 inches in length.
What kind of water conditions do these fish prefer?
They thrive in water temperatures between 72°F and 82°F, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and soft to moderately hard water.
How does the appearance of this fish change as it matures?
Juveniles display crisp black bars over a silvery body. As they mature, they develop into large, powerful swimmers with a more commanding presence and enhanced visual impact.



Edward Harris –
This fish is a true showstopper. The black bars stand out beautifully in my 55-gallon tank. It moves with strong energy and adds a lot of visual interest. I’ve had it for three months and it’s still active and healthy.
Warren Bell –
The fish arrived alive and seemed very alert. It’s not for beginners—requires a large tank and strong water flow. But once you have it, it’s hard to take your eyes off it. Great for a bold, dynamic aquarium.
Carolyn Skinner –
I was looking for a fish with strong visual presence, and this one delivers. The vertical banding is sharp and eye-catching. It swims confidently and doesn’t hide in the background like smaller species.