Pentazona Barb

Desmopuntius pentazona

BarbsBeginner
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Species Details

Pentazona Barbs are attractive five-banded fish from Southeast Asia that are more peaceful than their tiger barb relatives. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water and are excellent for planted community aquariums.

Beginner Care Level

Basic Information

Size5 cm (2 inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan4-6 years
Tank Size76+ litres (20+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
22-26°C (72-79°F)
pH Level
5.5-6.8
Hardness
2-10 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Pentazona Barb
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Danios & Minnows

Various Danio, Devario species

Cyprinids
Size:3-10 cm (1-4 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Gouramis

Various Trichogaster, Colisa species

Anabantoids
Size:5-25 cm (2-10 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Five-banded barb similar to tiger barb

More peaceful than tiger barbs

Native to Southeast Asian blackwater streams

Distinctive five vertical black bands

Excellent for planted community aquariums

Active schooling fish requiring groups

Hardy and adaptable to aquarium conditions

Less fin-nipping behaviour than tiger barbs

Beautiful in biotope setups

Popular alternative to tiger barbs

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution6
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size76+ litres (20+ gallons)
Temperature22-26°C (72-79°F)
pH5.5-6.8
Hardness2-10 dGH

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