Onebanded neolebias - Neolebias unifasciatus

Scientific name: Neolebias unifasciatus

Common name: Onebanded neolebias

Family: Distichodontidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.1

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 1 - 9°N (17.86 - 160.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°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: Middle levels

Food and feeding

The onebanded neolebias (Neolebias unifasciatus) has a small mouth with tiny teeth, so it requires appropriately sized foods. While they will accept quality micro flakes or small granules, the majority of their diet should consist of live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, microworms, and cyclops. Feed small portions 2–3 times per day to match their high metabolism and ensure they receive enough nutrients in a community setting.

Origin

This species originates from freshwater habitats in central Africa, particularly in the waterways of Zambia and the Congo River Basin. Their natural environment includes clear, slow-moving streams and shaded forest creeks rich in aquatic plants and leaf litter.

Sexing

Males are usually smaller and more vividly colored, with intensified markings compared to females. Females tend to have a rounder belly, especially when carrying eggs.

Breeding

Breeding Neolebias unifasciatus in captivity has not been widely documented. In the wild, they are believed to be egg scatterers, depositing eggs among plants or in leaf litter. A potential breeding attempt should include soft, slightly acidic water, dense vegetation or spawning mops, and a group setup to encourage natural behavior. If successful, adults should be removed after spawning to avoid egg predation.

Lifespan

With proper care and a stress-free environment, onebanded neolebias can live for 3 to 5 years in the aquarium.

Short description

Neolebias unifasciatus is a rare and shy African species, recognized by its slender body and characteristic single dark vertical band behind the gill cover. Due to its timid nature, it should always be kept in groups of at least 8 individuals to promote confidence and natural schooling behavior. Floating plants and subdued lighting help them feel secure. They are rarely seen in the aquarium trade and may require careful acclimatization and high water quality to thrive.

Suitable tankmates

Being peaceful and shy, onebanded neolebias should be housed with other small, calm species that won’t outcompete them for food or disturb their behavior. Ideal tankmates include:

Pygmy corydoras
Ember tetras
Boraras brigittae
Otocinclus
Other small, non-aggressive African or South American species

Recommended plants

This species thrives in a planted aquarium with gentle water flow and soft lighting. Floating and low-light-tolerant plants are ideal. Recommended species include: