Two spot barb - Puntius cumingii

Scientific name: Puntius cumingii

Common name: Two spot barb

Family: Cyprinidae

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

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.5 - 6.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 26 °C (71.6 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Sri Lanka

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Two spot barbs are omnivores that feed on algae, plankton, and detritus in the wild. In the aquarium, they will readily accept high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and sinking wafers. Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach or zucchini, and offer occasional treats like daphnia or brine shrimp. Ensure there's enough biofilm or algae in the tank, or add spirulina-based foods if algae levels are low.

Origin

Puntius cumingii is endemic to Sri Lanka, where it inhabits clear, slow-flowing forest streams and shallow rivers with soft, acidic water. These habitats are typically rich in leaf litter and aquatic vegetation.

Sexing

Mature males are slimmer and more vividly colored, especially during the breeding season. Females are rounder and generally less colorful.

Breeding

To breed two spot barbs, set up a separate dimly lit tank with soft, slightly acidic water and temperatures around 24–26 °C (75–79 °F). Add fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg deposition. These fish spawn in groups, so keeping an equal number of males and females increases success. After spawning, remove all adults to prevent egg predation. Eggs typically hatch within 24–48 hours, and fry become free-swimming after another 24 hours. Start feeding infusoria, then transition to newly hatched brine shrimp or fine powdered food.

Lifespan

Two spot barbs can live up to 6 years with proper care and a stable, well-maintained aquarium environment.

Short description

The two spot barb (Puntius cumingii) is a small, peaceful schooling fish ideal for softwater community aquariums. It is available in two color varieties—one with red fins and another with yellow fins. The red-finned variety prefers slower water flow and often forages near the substrate. These barbs are active, hardy, and enjoy swimming in groups of six or more. A planted tank with subdued lighting and soft substrate will help them feel secure and display their natural behavior.

Suitable tankmates

Due to their peaceful nature, two spot barbs can be kept with other gentle, similarly sized species that prefer soft, slightly acidic water. Recommended tankmates include: