Five-banded barb (Desmopuntius pentazona)

Family: Cyprinidae

Desmopuntius pentazona — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 6.6–9.7 cm; keep at 26–29 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
26–29 °C
pH
5–6
GH hardness
5–12 dGH
Adult length
6.6–9.7 cm
Minimum tank
113 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species: Desmopuntius pentazona lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 6.6–9.7 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Desmopuntius pentazona easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Desmopuntius pentazona need?

Set the heater to 26–29 °C and avoid swings. pH 5–6, GH 5–12 dGH suit it.

How big does Desmopuntius pentazona get, and what tank size?

Expect 6.6–9.7 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 113 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Desmopuntius pentazona eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Desmopuntius pentazona live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Desmopuntius pentazona come from?

It lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Desmopuntius pentazona jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Desmopuntius pentazona breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.