Description

Clown Barb (Barbodes dunckeri)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Barbodes dunckeri

• Family: Cyprinidae

• Origin: Malaysia & Thailand (slow-moving rivers & streams)

• Size: 5 – 6 inches (12 – 15 cm)

• Lifespan: 5 – 8 years

• Tank Zone: Mid & bottom dwellers

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 100 – 250 ppm

• pH: 6.0 – 7.0

• Temperature: 22 – 27°C (72 – 81°F)

• Hardness: 4 – 10 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Silvery-golden body with 5 bold vertical black bands.

• Fins often reddish/orange – giving a colorful appearance.

• Active, playful, and hardy species.

• Peaceful but energetic – may bother very shy fish.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous.

• Diet: High-quality flakes, sinking pellets, live/frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia), blanched vegetables.

• Feeding: 2–3 times daily in small portions.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (larger for groups).

• Filtration: Strong filtration with good oxygenation.

• Decor: Open swimming areas with rocks, driftwood, hardy plants.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: 5 or more (shoaling species).

• Tank Mates: Barbs, Gouramis, Silver Dollars, larger Tetras, Loaches, Corydoras.

• Avoid: Very small fish (may be chased), aggressive predators.

✅ Do’s

• Keep in groups to reduce aggression.

• Provide swimming space and hiding areas.

• Offer a balanced diet with variety.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep alone – they become stressed.

• Don’t mix with tiny or delicate fish.

• Don’t overcrowd the tank.

⭐ Quick Tips

• Attractive barb with bold stripes and red fins.

• Hardy and suitable for medium to large aquariums.

• Great choice for active community tanks.