Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Live Plant Safe: No
General Description: The Six Banded Distichodus, also referred as the Barred Distichodus or by its scientific name Distichodus Sexfasciatus, is found throughout central Africa in Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania. Here, the Six banded distichodus is a benthic species that spends much of its time at the bottom of lakes and rivers. A relatively easy fish to care for if the proper environment is provided, the Six banded distichodus has a rather robust body shape that is orange in color, with six black bands. As this fish matures, its patterning becomes less prominent. In the wild, this species can grow upwards of 30″ in length. In the home aquarium however, the adult size potential of this fish is more likely to be around 15″. This makes the Six banded distichodus a species best left to the dedicated aquarist that can provide a large enough aquarium for it to thrive. Most Six banded distichodus for sale are mere juveniles at only a few inches. Juveniles may also be mixed in with typical community-type fish, but be aware that this arrangement is not ideal for a Six banded distichodus in the long run. Also, only one individual per aquarium is best because most tanks will not be spacious enough to avoid quarrels between multiple adult individuals.
Diet Requirements: In the wild the Six banded distichodus are omnivores, but a greater proportion of their diet should be vegetable based. A diet made up of various high quality vegetable and protein based flake foods and sinking pellet foods are ideal, in addition to offering frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp that contains spirulina algae and other mixed freshwater preparations. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish. Foods that contain excessive levels of protein should be avoided.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 75 to 90 gallon aquarium is ideal for a small Six banded distichodus. The tank will need to be upgraded accordingly as it grows. A tight fitting lid is absolutely necessary, as Six banded distichodus are excellent jumpers. This fish should not be put into a biologically immature aquarium. Weekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters pristine (Nitrates < 15 ppm) as Six banded distichodus do not like deteriorating water parameters. Equipping the aquarium with a canister filter can also be advantageous to maintain a healthier environment for a Six banded distichodus. Six banded distichodus are relatively indifferent to aquarium decor, but smooth rocks, driftwood and other natural looking arrangements and artificial plants will bring out the beauty of this fish. Unobstructed and open swimming space should also be provided, especially for an adult specimen. A sandy or fine substrate several inches deep is preferred and the aquarium needs to be well oxygenated. Six banded distichodus are quite unpredictable in personality. Specimens can be completely peaceful or rather spiteful. They are best kept with other similarly sized, robust and active species. Do not mix Six banded distichodus with timid or peaceful species, or tank mates with decorative fins. Small fish species might thrive alongside a juvenile, but will likely not be suitable once your Six banded distichodus grows larger. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 10-20, pH 6.0-7.5.
Purchase Size: Medium: 2″ to 2-1/2″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
