真线无须魮 · Striped Barb

Overview

The striped barb, Desmopuntius johorensis, undergoes a conspicuous change from four juvenile bars to five or six broad adult stripes. Allow room for a full group, and do not base identification solely on a young fish's pattern or an old trade label.

Distribution & habitat

The range covers southern Thailand, the Malay Peninsula, Singapore, Sumatra, and Borneo, including records from Brunei and both Malaysian and Indonesian Borneo. Peat swamps and associated blackwater channels are important habitats. Other records concern vegetated still water and slow coastal forest streams.

Humic material colors the soft acidic water. Leaves, roots, sand, and peat form much of the submerged environment.

Aquarium setup

Dense planting or a subdued forest-water display suits the species. Combine soft substrate with wood, branches, and leaves, retaining swimming room for the group. Suitable ferns, mosses, and crypts can add vegetation under reduced lighting.

Diet & feeding

Wild fish are thought to gather a mixture of algae, diatoms, detritus, and small invertebrates. Offer good flakes or granules, including some plant-based formulations, together with regular frozen or live foods. Bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp provide useful additions.

Behaviour & compatibility

Eight to ten or more fish encourage confidence and stronger male displays. Comparably sized peaceful open-water cyprinids and small loaches are possible companions when water and space requirements match.

Sexual dimorphism

Adult males are generally smaller and slimmer, with more intense coloration than females.

Breeding

Eggs are scattered without guarding. A separate dim spawning tank with mature water gives greater control over fry production. Provide gentle aeration and egg protection using mesh, marbles, fine plants, or mops. Water can be slightly acidic to neutral, near the warmer end of its usual range.

Condition the adults well, then use pairs or a larger group with sufficient space. Remove them when eggs are found. Hatching usually takes one to one and a half days, and swimming young appear after about three to four days. Start with microscopic foods before introducing microworms and nauplii.

Notes

Pattern transformation begins around 2 cm and is usually complete by 3–4 cm. Broad adult stripes are a useful clue. Historical naming confusion includes both another name for this species and misuse of johorensis for a different barred fish.