T-Barb Breeding Guide

Breeding Barbodes lateristriga, a large egg-scattering barb in which males develop head tubercles and an enlarged head profile.

Overview

Barbodes lateristriga is a large Southeast Asian barb that, according to Seriously Fish, spawns readily when in good condition. It is an egg-scattering free spawner with no parental care, and its size means a roomy spawning tank is needed.

Sexing

Males show a more intense colour pattern than females and develop noticeable head tubercles in spawning condition, and some males develop an enlarged head profile. Females grow a little larger, are heavier-bodied and less colourful.

Conditioning

The adult group can be conditioned together on a varied diet of live, frozen and dried foods. Condition the fish until the females are plainly gravid and males show their tubercles.

Breeding Setup

Set up a smaller, very dimly lit aquarium filled with mature water. Cover the base with mesh so the eggs fall through out of the adults' reach, or use fine-leaved plants such as Taxiphyllum species or spawning mops. Add an air-powered sponge filter or air stone for oxygenation and gentle movement. Keep the pH slightly acidic to neutral and the temperature toward the upper end of the range.

Spawning Behavior & Trigger

Introduce one or two well-conditioned pairs, or spawn a group of about half a dozen of each sex. The adults will probably eat the eggs given the chance and should be removed as soon as any are noticed.

Egg & Fry Care

Eggs hatch in about 24 to 36 hours, and the fry are free-swimming after roughly 3 to 4 days. Feed an infusoria-grade food for the first few days, then microworm, Artemia nauplii and similar foods.

Common Challenges

Adults can be boisterous and reach a large size, so a spacious spawning tank and prompt removal after spawning are important. As with other barbs, the parents readily consume their own eggs.