Jae Barb (Enteromius Jae)
Most community aquariums cannot accommodate Jae Barbs, Enteromius Jae, due to their shyness and humble nature. In spite of their social nature, these fish are not schooling fish, and males develop a distinct pecking order. If possible, keep a group of at least eight fish in the aquarium so weaker individuals can escape more dominant ones.
Peaceful species of similar size and temperament would make ideal tankmates for Jae Barbs. For example, small Tetras, micro Rasboras, Otocinclus Catfish, and smaller Corydoras Catfish are all ideal. However, avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive species because they will be intimidated and outcompeted.
A biotope setup is recommended to keep Jae Barbs as they are delicate barbs. They should be kept in a well-planted aquarium with soft water, and a low PH, which can be achieved by using a low PH active substrate, Sphagnum peat moss and adding driftwood roots or bogwood will also provide plenty of hiding places for these shy Dwarf Barbs.
As well as adding a natural feel, dried leaf litter will provide more cover for your fish; the leaves will also stain the water dark, showing the fish's more intense colouration.
Jae Barbs have small and slender, reddish-orange bodies and vertical dark bars down their flanks. The fins of these fish are translucent with red hues. As a result of their geographic origin, these fish vary both in colour and patterning. In the breeding season, some individuals are blood red, whereas others have a grey body colour with a deep red or black ventral and dorsal fin.
Jae Barb (Enteromius Jae) Video
Jae barbs - (Enteromius jae) Rare Dwarf Barbs - Tropical Fish (butterfly barbs included)
Photos
Quick Facts | |
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Scientific Name | Enteromius Jae |
Year Described | 1903 |
Other Names | Dja Barb, Charcoal Barb |
Classification | Actinopterygii |
Order | Cypriniformes |
Family | Cyprinidae |
Genus | Enteromius |
Origins | Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon |
Temperament | Peaceful |
Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
Shoaling | Yes |
Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
Diet | Omnivore |
Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
Lifespan | 3 - 5 years |
Water Parameters | |
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Water Type | Freshwater |
PH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
GH | 1 - 5 |
TDS | 18 - 90 |
Temperature | |
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70 - 77℉ 21.1 - 25℃ |
Feeding
In the home aquarium, the Jae Barb will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.
Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.
It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.
This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.
Sexual Dimorphism
Differentiating males and female Jae Barbs is effortless. A male is usually brightly coloured, especially during breeding conditions, whereas a female is duller and bulkier, usually a beige-brown colour rather than red.