Desmopuntius pentazona 2.5–3 cm Wild (Desmopuntius pentazona), commonly known as the fiveband barb, is a small, peaceful cyprinid from South-East Asia. The fish offered here are wild-caught and display a natural brown/orange base colour with five distinct black vertical bars. They belong to our freshwater range and are ideal for peaceful, planted community aquariums.

Behavior and care

This is a very social and peaceful species that should always be kept in a school of at least 8–10 fish, preferably more. A larger group greatly reduces stress, prevents fin-nipping and brings out natural schooling behaviour.

For a group we recommend a minimum of 80 litres, with plenty of open swimming space in the midwater. Wild-caught fish appreciate stable, well-filtered water with little fluctuation. Use starter bacteria when cycling the tank and monitor water values regularly with water tests. Avoid large, aggressive or overly boisterous tankmates.

Diet

In nature this barb is an omnivorous micro-predator, feeding on small invertebrates, insect larvae and plant matter. In the aquarium it readily accepts fine flakes, micro-pellets and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops and mosquito larvae.

For best results, provide a varied diet using our specialised foods for small tropical fish to support growth, colour and vitality. Feed several small meals per day and avoid overfeeding.

Water parameters

• Ideal temperature: 23 – 28 °C
• pH: 5.5 – 7.0
• GH: 2 – 10 °dGH
• KH: 1 – 5 °dKH
• Conductivity: 50 – 200 µS

In the wild, this species often inhabits soft, slightly acidic, sometimes tea-coloured waters (blackwater streams). Before adding the fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Provide efficient filtration with gentle to moderate flow and maintain the tank with suitable maintenance tools and regular water changes.

This species is sensitive to nitrite spikes and sudden changes, so prefer moderate weekly water changes over infrequent large ones.

Decor and environment

Try to recreate an Asian forest stream or flooded forest: a dark aquarium substrate (sand or fine gravel), driftwood, branches, leaf litter (e.g. catappa leaves) and plenty of live plants (Cryptocoryne, Microsorum, Anubias, stem plants). Floating plants help diffuse the light and make the school feel more secure.

A moderate lighting system, partially filtered by plants, will show off the natural colours at their best. Add some discreet decorations if desired, without obstructing the swimming space.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

To get the most from your Desmopuntius pentazona Wild, combine a good-sized school with soft, slightly acidic water and a dark, plant-rich layout. Their contrasty colours really shine in such a setup.
Stability = success: regularly check your parameters with our water tests and perform regular, moderate water changes to keep water quality high.

Shipping and delivery of live fish

Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the destination department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium and Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.