Photo contributed by Peter Routon, CA, USA.
© Peter Routon

Green and Golden varieties

Lower photos taken at Wharf Aquatics Scientific namePuntius tetrazona SynonymsSumatra barb, Barbus/Capoeta tetrazona (not valid) SizeUp to 3" (7.5cm), but often smaller in aquaria OriginIndonesia and Borneo Tank setupPlanted tank with plenty of swimming space for this active shoaler CompatibilityOften included in a community tank, but has a reputation as a fin-nipper Temperature20-26oC (68-79oF) Water chemistryFairly soft, slightly acidic preferred (pH 6.5-7), especially for breeding FeedingOmnivorous, most foods accepted SexingMales tend to be more colourful and are smaller and slimmer than females BreedingTypical egg scatterer. It may be best to allow pairs to develop from within the shoal. A separate tank is advisable for spawning, so that the adults can be returned to the main tank after spawning, to avoid the eggs being eaten. Comments This fish is available in two additional colour varieties: green and golden. The green variety, (sometimes referred to as mossy barbs) has dark green patches, the golden variety lacks the black bars. They have a reputation as fin nippers, but this can be avoided to some extent by keeping as a large shoal, where they will spend most of their time establishing a pecking order amongst themselves. ...