African Banded Barb (Enteromius fasciolatus) Import

The African Banded Barb is a beautiful, active schooling fish known for its golden body with dark vertical bands. Native to slow-moving rivers and streams in Africa, these barbs are peaceful, hardy, and an excellent choice for community tanks.

Quick Facts:

• Scientific Name: Enteromius fasciolatus
• Common Names: African Banded Barb, Banded Barb
• Origin: Africa (Angola, Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo)
• Size: 6–8 cm
• Lifespan: 5–7 years
• Temperament: Peaceful, active, best in groups
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 80+ litres (120+ litres for larger schools)
• Temperature: 22–27°C
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 4–12 dGH
• Filtration: Moderate to high flow, well-oxygenated water
• Substrate & Decorations:
  • Fine sand or smooth gravel for a natural setup.
  • Live plants (Java Fern, Vallisneria, Amazon Sword, Water Sprite) provide cover.
  • Driftwood and rock structures offer hiding places.
  • Open swimming space is essential for their activity.

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Best kept in schools of 6+ (reduces stress and brings out natural behavior).
• Active swimmers but non-aggressive.
• Compatible Tank Mates:
  • Small, peaceful fish (Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, Otocinclus).
  • Other African species (Congo Tetras, Dwarf Cichlids, African Killifish).
  • Shrimp and snails (Amano Shrimp, Nerite Snails, Mystery Snails).
• Avoid fin-nippers and overly aggressive fish.

Diet

African Banded Barbs are omnivores and need a varied diet:

• High-quality flakes & micro pellets (staple diet).
• Frozen/live foods (daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms for extra protein).
• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber for fiber).

Breeding

• Egg scatterers – no parental care
• Best bred in a separate tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
• Males intensify in color during spawning
• Eggs hatch in ~24–36 hours, fry eat infusoria and powdered fry food

Care Tips

✔ Keep in groups of 6+ for a natural, stress-free environment
✔ Provide live plants for cover and a natural habitat
✔ Regular water changes (25–30% weekly) help maintain health
✔ Feed a variety of foods for vibrant colors and strong immune systems

Why Keep African Banded Barbs?

✅ Attractive golden color with dark bands
✅ Active yet peaceful, perfect for community tanks
✅ Hardy and adaptable, great for beginner aquarists
✅ Interesting schooling behavior makes them fun to watch

Would you like recommendations on tank mates or aquascaping ideas for them? 😊