Distribution: Puntius pentazona, commonly known as Fiveband Barb, is an Asian freshwater species found from the Malay Peninsula to Sumatra, Indonesia. It has also been recorded in Cambodia, Vietnam and Singapore; it mostly inhabits peat swamps and black water streams.
PH: 5.0 – 6.0
Temperature: 26°C – 29C (79 – 84F)
Hardness: 5 – 12 dH
Description: Puntius pentazona can reach a length of around 9 cm. It is very similar in colouration to the Tiger Barb, five black vertical bands on an orange-gold body, but the black bars are thinner and the fish is not as high-bodied. Males are slimmer and brighter than females. This species is commonly confused for the Tiger Barb. It may live anywhere between 5 – 8 years.
Diet: Puntius pentazona is a reasonably unfussy eater and, in the wild, preys on small invertebrates, zooplankton and crustaceans. You can feed it a good dried product as a staple, along with live foods such as Daphnia or Artemia.
Breeding: Puntius pentazona is an egg-scattering species; you should add spawning mops or Java moss to keep the eggs safe. Don’t leave the adults alone with the eggs as they will eat them if given the chance; remove them straight after spawning. The fry will hatch in 24 – 30 hours and will become free swimming within 4 – 5 days. Do not perform drastic water changes during this time.
Comments: You should have a small group of Puntius pentazona in a 27 litre tank. A dark substrate and dim lighting will enable it to display its beautiful, natural colours. You should put plenty of surface vegetation at the top of the tank, along with bogwood, twisted roots and peat fibre mixed into the substrate. It is advised you provide plenty of open areas for swimming. Puntius pentazona is suitable for hobbyists of all levels of experience.
Recommended Compatible Species: Puntius pentazona can be a nervous species and should be housed with slow-moving, non-aggressive species. It should be kept in groups of at least five. This species can be kept with other Barbs, Loaches and Rasboras of a peaceful temperament.