Checkered Barb – Oliotius oligolepis

Scientific Name: Oliotius oligolepis
Common Names: Checkered Barb, Checker Barb
Also Known As: Puntius oligolepis

The Checkered Barb is a peaceful and attractive freshwater schooling fish known for its distinctive checkerboard-like scale pattern, metallic coloration, and reddish-orange fins. Mature males can develop stronger red coloration and darker edging along the scales and fins, while females generally remain slightly larger and more subdued in color.

Native to Indonesia, Checkered Barbs are small, active fish that work especially well in planted and peaceful community aquariums. Their compact size and relatively calm temperament make them an excellent choice for aquarists who enjoy the activity of barbs without the more aggressive behavior associated with some larger species.

Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful / Active
Adult Size: Approximately 2 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Temperature: Approximately 72–79°F
pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5
Diet: Omnivore
Recommended Group Size: 6 or more

Recommended Setup: Provide a well-filtered aquarium with live plants, driftwood, rocks, and plenty of open swimming space. A planted environment with some shaded areas and darker substrate can complement their natural coloration and provide a comfortable environment for the school.

Feed a varied diet of high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and other appropriately sized prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia. Vegetable matter can also be incorporated into a balanced diet.

Behavior & Tankmates: Checkered Barbs are generally peaceful and are well suited to community aquariums with similarly sized, non-aggressive species. They are social fish and should be maintained in a group of at least 6 to encourage natural schooling and social behavior.

Suitable tankmates include other peaceful barbs, rasboras, tetras, Corydoras, and similarly sized community fish with compatible water requirements.

Please Note: Coloration, checkerboard pattern, size, maturity, and sex naturally vary between individual fish. Mature males typically develop stronger coloration than juveniles and females. The fish you receive may differ slightly from the individual pictured.

Available Quantities: Individual fish and discounted group options are available. For their long-term well-being and natural social behavior, we recommend keeping Checkered Barbs in a group of 6 or more.

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