Stoliczka's Barb (Pethia stoliczkana (syn. Puntius stoliczkanus)) — 3-4cm

Overview

Stoliczka's Barb (Pethia stoliczkana) is a hardy, active little barb native to South and Southeast Asia, with records from the upper Mekong, Salween, Irrawaddy, Meklong, and upper Chao Phraya river basins. Renowned for its attractive markings, peaceful shoaling behavior, and adaptability, this species is an excellent choice for the well-planted community aquarium. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, Stoliczka's Barb brings constant movement, color, and lively personality to any tropical setup.

Appearance

Stoliczka's Barb typically reaches around 5.5 cm in total length, making it a small to medium-sized barb. The body is elongated and silvery, marked with two prominent dark spots or bars along the flanks, which give rise to the alternative common name "Two Spot Barb." The fins may show subtle red or orange highlights, especially in mature males during breeding displays. Females are generally more robust and less colorful. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Pethia stoliczkana inhabits clear, slow to moderately flowing rivers, streams, and tributaries across a wide range of South and Southeast Asia. These waters are typically soft to moderately hard, with rocky or sandy substrates and plenty of aquatic vegetation. The surrounding landscape is forested or agricultural, contributing organic matter and shading to the water. During the monsoon season, water levels rise and fish move into flooded areas to spawn among submerged vegetation.

Aquarium Setup

A well-filtered aquarium of at least 75 litres is recommended for a shoal of Stoliczka's Barbs, as they are active swimmers and require plenty of open space. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate and incorporate smooth rocks, driftwood, and live plants such as Vallisneria, Java fern, or Cryptocoryne species to provide cover and visual interest. Ensure good filtration and moderate water movement, and provide a secure lid, as active barbs can jump when startled or during courtship displays.

Feeding

Stoliczka's Barb is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer high-quality flake or small pellet foods as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Occasional vegetable matter, such as blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods, will support digestive health and color. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality and prevent overfeeding. A varied, balanced diet will enhance coloration and support breeding condition.

Behaviour

This barb is lively, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a shoal of at least six individuals. When kept in proper numbers, Stoliczka's Barb is peaceful and confident, displaying natural schooling behavior and engaging in playful interactions. Lone fish or those kept in undersized groups may become stressed or nippy. Males may engage in mild territorial displays during spawning, but serious aggression is rare. They occupy the middle and upper levels of the aquarium and are most active during feeding time.

Tank Mates

Stoliczka's Barb is suitable for a community aquarium with other small, peaceful fish. Good tankmates include other small peaceful cyprinids, danios, rasboras, small tetras, and peaceful loaches. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species kept in too-small groups, and very slow long-finned fish such as bettas and fancy guppies if nipping occurs. This species is generally peaceful when kept in proper numbers.

Breeding

Breeding Stoliczka's Barb in captivity is achievable with careful preparation. This is an egg-scattering species that may spawn among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops in a separate breeding tank. Condition adults with rich live and frozen foods, and provide soft, clean water. Adults should be removed after spawning because they may eat eggs and fry. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering healthy, carefully selected barbs direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add active, attractive species like Stoliczka's Barb to your collection. Whether you're setting up your first community aquarium or expanding an established setup, our knowledgeable team is here to help you succeed. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.