Approx Max Length : 4.5cm

Bandula Barb - Pethia bandula Fish Profile & Care Guide

Bandula Barbs (Pethia bandula) exhibit remarkable beauty and rarity, possessing attributes of peacefulness, resilience, and an active nature. These characteristics render them highly suitable inhabitants for community aquariums, appealing to both novice and experienced aquarists alike.

The adaptability of Bandula Barbs to a wide range of water parameters allows for harmonious cohabitation with numerous popular fish species commonly found in the hobby. These include small Cyprinids, Livebearers, Tetras, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Loaches, and Catfish.

Being naturally inclined towards schooling behaviour, acquiring a minimum of 6 to 10 of these Barbs is advisable. Maintaining them in such numbers not only reduces their skittishness but also contributes to a more visually captivating and realistic display. Furthermore, the presence of male-to-male competition enhances the development of vibrant colouration in males.

To accentuate the colouration of these fish, an aquarium with abundant plant cover and a dark substrate is recommended. The addition of floating plants and the incorporation of driftwood roots or branches, which diffuse the entering light, are appreciated by Bandula Barbs and contribute to a more natural ambience. Filtration requirements do not demand excessive strength, although these fish welcome a moderate degree of water movement.

The male Bandula Barb showcases a stunning red colouration along its body, accompanied by two vertical black blotches on the flanks—one located posterior to the operculum and the other on the caudal peduncle. Additionally, the male exhibits a blue hue between the dorsal fin and the head.

The male's dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins are black, while the pectoral fin is transparent, and the caudal fin displays a reddish-orange hue. In contrast, females possess the same vertical black blotches on their flanks, but their bodies range from beige to light brown in colour, with all fins being transparent and showing slight black shading at the base.

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Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

Distinguishing between male and female Bandula Barbs is a straightforward task. Adult males exhibit distinctive characteristics, appearing smaller in size, slimmer in physique, and more vibrant in colouration compared to females, particularly during the period of spawning.

Male Female

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Pethia bandula
Year Described	1991
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Cypriniformes
Family	Cyprinidae
Genus	Pethia
Origins	Sri Lanka
Approx Max Size	4.5 cm
Temperament	Peaceful
Aquarium Level	Middle
Difficulty	Beginner - Intermediate
Shoaling	Yes
Best kept as	Groups 6+
Diet & Feeding	Omnivore
Reproduction	Egg-Scatterer
Average Lifespan	Up to 5 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	5.5 - 7.5
GH	5 - 12
TDS	18 – 215

Ideal Temperature Range
℉	68 - 80
℃	20 - 27

Natural Habitat

The Bandula Barb, a species of considerable significance, is exclusively documented within a modest, unnamed stream coursing through the environs of Minimaru Coloniya in Pallegama Estate, situated near Galapitamada, Sri Lanka, within the South Asian region. These barbs have been observed to inhabit a small, stony watercourse that crosses rice fields and rubber plantations, often seeking shelter beneath the foliage and among partially submerged vegetation in the shallower depths of the water.

Due to its critical endangerment, this species has been recorded solely at an isolated, unprotected location, where the estimated population comprises a mere 1,000 individuals.

Recognizing the dire circumstances, a proactive measure was undertaken in 2014, wherein a supplementary "insurance population" was established through collaborative efforts between a team of experts affiliated with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Sri Lanka's Forest Department, the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and local communities.

Breeding

Although limited information is available regarding the breeding habits of Bandula Barbs, it is reasonable to infer that they engage in reproductive behaviours similar to other Pethia species.

Bandula Barbs can be successfully bred in both group settings and pairs. The breeding tank should be furnished with soft, acidic water and adorned with fine-leaved plant species like Java moss. Alternatively, the use of spawning mops can serve as a suitable substitute.

Maintaining subdued lighting conditions is of utmost importance, as the eggs are particularly sensitive to bright light. Stimulating spawning and promoting the production of high-quality eggs can be achieved by providing the barbs with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

The onset of spawning becomes apparent when the male engages in courtship behaviour, circling the female while showcasing his fin displays. This courtship ritual can extend over several hours, and the resulting pair may produce a substantial quantity of eggs, dispersing them among the vegetation.

In line with standard practices for many aquatic species, it is imperative to relocate the adult fish after spawning to protect the eggs from predation. Typically, the eggs hatch within 24 hours, and the newly hatched fry begins exhibiting free-swimming behaviours approximately one to two days later.

Diet & Feeding

The dietary needs of Bandula Barbs can be easily met, as they exhibit a flexible feeding behaviour. However, to maintain their vibrant colouration and optimal health, it is advisable to provide them with regular feedings of small live and frozen foods, such as Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms. It is recommended to include high-quality dried granules and flakes as the primary component of their diet, preferably those enriched with algae or plant content. By adhering to these feeding practices, the Bandula Barbs can thrive and display their best physical condition.