Round-banded Barb (Desmopuntius johorensis)
The Round-banded Barb (Desmopuntius johorensis), commonly known as the Snakeskin Barb, is a beautiful freshwater schooling fish prized for its intricate reticulated pattern and shimmering gold-bronze coloration. Native to Borneo, Malaysia, and Sumatra, this peaceful barb displays a unique snakeskin-like appearance that stands out in planted aquariums and community fish tanks.
Active, hardy, and social, Round-banded Barbs thrive when kept in groups and provide constant movement throughout the aquarium. Their attractive coloration and peaceful nature make them an excellent choice for aquarists looking for something a little different from more common barb species.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Desmopuntius johorensis
- Common Names: Round-banded Barb, Snakeskin Barb
- Adult Size: 3 inches (7–8 cm)
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Care Level: Easy to Moderate
- Diet: Omnivore
- Lifespan: 4–6 years
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
- Water Temperature: 74–80°F
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- KH: 3–10 dKH
- Swimming Level: Midwater to Lower Levels
- Schooling Fish: Yes
Why Choose Round-banded Barbs?
✔ Unique snakeskin-like body pattern
✔ Attractive gold and bronze coloration
✔ Peaceful community fish
✔ Excellent schooling behavior
✔ Great for planted aquariums
✔ Rare and uncommon aquarium species
Aquarium Setup
Round-banded Barbs thrive in aquariums that provide both open swimming space and plenty of cover. Live plants, driftwood, leaf litter, and natural décor help replicate their native habitat while making them feel secure.
Recommended setup:
- 30 gallons or larger
- Planted aquarium
- Driftwood and natural décor
- Moderate water flow
- Open swimming areas
- School of 6 or more fish
Darker substrates often help enhance their natural coloration.
Diet & Feeding
Round-banded Barbs are omnivores and readily accept a variety of foods, including:
- Tropical flakes
- Quality pellets
- Frozen bloodworms
- Brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Live foods
- Vegetable-based foods
A varied diet helps maintain coloration and encourages natural behavior.
Tank Mates
Round-banded Barbs do well with:
- Rasboras
- Tetras
- Corydoras
- Rainbowfish
- Gouramis
- Other peaceful Barbs
- Loaches
- Peaceful community fish
Avoid aggressive cichlids and highly territorial species.
Schooling Behavior
Like many barb species, Round-banded Barbs are social fish that should be kept in groups.
Recommended group sizes:
- Minimum: 6 fish
- Ideal: 8–10+ fish
Keeping them in larger groups helps reduce stress and encourages more natural schooling behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Round-banded Barbs get?
Most adults reach approximately 3 inches in length.
Are Snakeskin Barbs peaceful?
Yes. They are considered peaceful schooling fish and do very well in community aquariums.
Can I keep Round-banded Barbs with tetras or rasboras?
Absolutely. They make excellent companions for other peaceful schooling species.
What do Round-banded Barbs eat?
They readily accept flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Do Round-banded Barbs need to be kept in groups?
Yes. Groups of six or more are recommended to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Shop healthy Round-banded Barbs and Snakeskin Barbs at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These unique freshwater schooling fish are excellent additions to planted aquariums and peaceful community fish tanks.
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