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Clown Barb - Barbodes everetti, Puntius everetti, Barbodes dunckeri : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Clown Barbs (Puntius everetti) are a stunning and active medium-sized fish that require an aquarium of at least 110 litres to thrive. Consider housing six or more individuals in a shoal for an attractive display. These hardy and relatively peaceful Barbs make a captivating addition to any aquarium, and any aggressive behaviour is usually limited as they focus on preserving their hierarchy. Keeping Clown Barbs in a species-only tank is recommended for experienced aquarists. While they are moderately easy to care for, they require specific tank conditions and compatible tankmates to thrive. In a community tank, they can nip fins and intimidate other fish, but they can be kept with similar-sized and temperamental Barbs, Devarios, Rasboras, and Balitorid Loaches. These Barbs prefer a well-planted aquarium, but they will nibble on plants, so hardy varieties such as Anubias sp and Java fern are recommended. Providing plenty of swimming space and a few woody and rocky hiding places is crucial for their well-being. As they are sensitive to pollutants, frequent partial water changes are necessary, and well-oxygenated water is vital, especially when kept at high temperatures. The Clown Barb has a torpedo shape and a striking reddish-gold sheen, with orange-brown upper bodies, orange-red sides, and yellow-to-white bellies. They also have dark, spotted band-like markings on their sides, red fins, and sometimes a hint of red in their iris. These Barbs lack an adipose fin and only have one dorsal fin, with a forked tail that gives them a clownish appearance.Clown Barb Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Mature Clown Barbs can be easily sexed based on their physical characteristics. Males tend to have a slimmer bodies and develop a more vibrant colour pattern, with noticeable tubercules on their heads during the breeding season. On the other hand, females are heavier-bodied, grow a little larger than males, and have less intense colouration.Quick Facts
Scientific Name | Barbodes everetti, Puntius everetti, Barbodes dunckeri |
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Year Described | 1894 |
Other Names | Everett's Barb |
Classification | Actinopterygii |
Order | Cypriniformes |
Family | Cyprinidae |
Genus | Barbodes |
Origins | Malaysia Indonesia |
Max Size | 15 cm |
Temperament | Peaceful |
Aquarium Level | All Levels |
Difficulty | Intermediate |
Shoaling | Yes |
Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
Diet | Omnivore |
Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
Lifespan | 4 - 8 years |
Water Parameters
Water Type | Freshwater |
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PH | 6.5 - 7.0 |
GH | 8 - 12 |
KH | |
TDS | 36 - 215 |
℉ | 79 - 82 |
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℃ | 26.1 - 27.8 |