Congo barb - Barbus callipterus

Scientific name: Barbus callipterus

Common name: Congo barb

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 9 cm (3.15 - 3.54 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 5 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 0 - 12°N (0 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 29 °C (73.4 - 84.2°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Tank Requirements

The Congo Barb (Barbus callipterus) is a peaceful and hardy species, making it well-suited to community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. They thrive in well-planted aquariums with soft, slightly acidic to neutral water. A minimum tank size of 100 liters (26 gallons) is recommended to accommodate a small group, as they are a schooling species and should be kept in groups of at least five individuals.

Maintain the water temperature between 23-29°C (73.4-84.2°F), with a pH range of 5.0-7.0, and water hardness between 0-12°N (0-214.29 ppm). These fish prefer clean, well-oxygenated water, so it is important to perform regular water changes and provide good filtration. Adding plants like Cryptocoryne or Anubias can provide hiding spots and a sense of security for the Congo Barb, while also helping maintain water quality.

Tankmates

Due to their peaceful nature, Congo Barbs make excellent tankmates for a wide range of other peaceful species. Ideal companions include small, non-aggressive fish and bottom-dwellers that share similar water requirements. Some suitable tankmates include:

Feeding

Congo Barbs are omnivores and will readily accept a variety of foods. In the wild, they feed on algae, insects, and small invertebrates, but in captivity, they will thrive on a varied diet of quality flake food, pellets, and frozen or live foods. Offer a mix of vegetable-based foods such as spirulina flakes, along with protein-rich options like bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Feeding them a balanced diet will help enhance their coloration and keep them healthy.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism in Congo Barbs is subtle but can be observed in mature specimens. Males tend to be brighter in coloration, with more vivid body markings. Females, on the other hand, are generally plainer and appear rounder, especially when full of eggs. The difference becomes more noticeable during the breeding season.

Breeding

Breeding Congo Barbs in a home aquarium can be achieved with the right conditions. They are egg-scatterers, and females will lay hundreds of eggs among fine-leaved plants or other vegetation. It is important to provide dense, bushy plants like Java Moss for spawning.

To encourage breeding, keep the water temperature around 26-28°C (78.8-82.4°F) and maintain slightly acidic water conditions. Once spawning is complete, it is crucial to remove the adults from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs typically hatch after two days, and the fry can be fed on infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to accept baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.

Lifespan

With proper care, Congo Barbs can live for up to 5-8 years in captivity, depending on water quality and diet. Providing a well-maintained environment with regular water changes and a varied diet will help ensure a long, healthy life.

Short Description

The Congo Barb (Barbus callipterus) is a peaceful and easy-to-care-for species native to African river systems. Despite being less colorful than some other barb species, their calm nature and compatibility with a wide range of tankmates make them a great choice for community aquariums. Congo Barbs prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space, and they do best in groups, which helps reduce stress and brings out their natural schooling behavior. Although not as commonly kept as other barbs, they are a rewarding species for aquarists looking for a peaceful addition to their tank.