False eightstripe barb - Eirmotus octozona

Scientific name: Eirmotus octozona

Common name: False eightstripe barb

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 3 - 4 cm (1.18 - 1.57 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7.1

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 1 - 11°N (17.86 - 196.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Eirmotus octozona, commonly known as the False Eightstripe Barb, is an omnivorous species that thrives on a varied and balanced diet. While they will accept high-quality flake food and small sinking pellets, these should be supplemented regularly with live or frozen foods to enhance their natural coloration and health.

Live/Frozen Foods: Daphnia, brine shrimp, microworms.
Vegetable Matter: Blanched spinach, spirulina flakes, finely chopped algae wafers.
Occasional Treats: Mosquito larvae or finely chopped bloodworms (sparingly).

For optimal health, feed small portions twice daily to ensure they get their share without leftovers fouling the water.

Origin

Eirmotus octozona is native to Southeast Asia, specifically found in Western Malaysia. They inhabit slow-moving, blackwater streams and forest pools, where the water is typically soft, slightly acidic, and rich in decaying organic matter. Their natural environment features dense vegetation, submerged roots, and leaf litter, all of which should be replicated in the home aquarium.

Sexing

Sexing False Eightstripe Barbs is relatively easy when they reach maturity:

Males: Slender body shape with a subtle reddish hue on the fins, especially during spawning conditions.
Females: Slightly larger and more rounded, particularly when carrying eggs.

Breeding

Breeding Eirmotus octozona in captivity requires a well-prepared breeding tank with optimal water conditions. These fish are egg scatterers and exhibit no parental care, so proper planning is necessary.

Steps for Breeding:

Set up a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0 - 6.5) and a temperature of 25-26°C (77-78.8°F).
Include fine-leaved plants such as Java Fern or Java Moss as spawning sites.
Use spawning mops or a mesh substrate to prevent the eggs from being eaten.
After spawning, remove the parents immediately to protect the eggs.
The eggs hatch within 3 days, and the fry become free-swimming after 4-5 days.
Feed fry Infusoria initially, followed by newly hatched brine shrimp as they grow.

Breeding can be challenging due to their shy nature, so patience and close monitoring are essential.

Lifespan

With proper care and a well-maintained environment, Eirmotus octozona can live up to 6 years.

Tank Setup and Behavior

False Eightstripe Barbs are shy, peaceful, and highly social fish, making them best suited for species-only tanks or carefully selected community setups. They are schooling fish, so they must be kept in groups of at least 8 individuals to feel secure.

Ideal Tank Conditions:

Tank Size: Minimum 40 liters (10 gallons) for a small group.
Water Parameters: pH 6.2 - 7.1, hardness 1 - 11 dGH.
Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel to mimic their natural blackwater habitat.
Filtration: A gentle sponge filter or low-flow filtration to prevent excessive water movement.
Lighting: Dim lighting or floating plants to create shade.
Decoration: Driftwood, leaf litter, and caves for hiding spots.

Tank Mates

Due to their timid nature, False Eightstripe Barbs should only be housed with other small, peaceful species that will not outcompete them for food.

Compatible Tank Mates:

Neon Tetras – Small, peaceful companions.
Ember Tetras – Ideal due to their calm nature.
Otocinclus Catfish – Gentle algae eaters.
Pygmy Corydoras – Peaceful bottom dwellers.
Dwarf rasbora – Well-suited for soft, acidic water.

Tank Mates to Avoid:

Tiger Barbs – Too boisterous and may stress them.
Gouramis – Can be too dominant in the tank.
Angelfish – Likely to outcompete them for food.

Recommended Plants

Since these fish thrive in planted tanks, adding plants that provide shade and shelter is essential:

Java Fern – Hardy and requires minimal care.
Java Moss – Ideal for spawning and cover.
Cryptocoryne Wendtii – Provides excellent shelter.
Anubias – Thrives in low-light conditions.

Short Description

Eirmotus octozona, commonly known as the False Eightstripe Barb, is a delicate and peaceful schooling fish best suited for species-only or carefully selected community tanks. Their shy nature makes them poor competitors for food, requiring slow-moving tank mates and a well-structured environment. With proper care, they display beautiful natural coloration and add elegance to blackwater-style aquariums.