Butterfly barb
Introduction
The Butterfly barb (Enteromius hulstaerti), also known as the African Butterfly Barb, is a captivating freshwater fish cherished by aquarists for its vibrant coloration and peaceful demeanor. Native to the Congo Basin in Africa, this diminutive species reaches an adult size of approximately 3.5 cm, making it an excellent choice for nano and small community aquariums. While their care is considered moderate, providing a suitable environment and attentive maintenance can ensure their health and longevity.
What makes the Butterfly barb a popular choice among aquarists?
Their striking appearance, manageable size, and gentle nature make them appealing to both novice and experienced fishkeepers.
Are Butterfly barbs suitable for beginners?
Yes, with proper research and commitment to maintaining water quality, beginners can successfully keep Butterfly barbs.
Care and Environment
Creating an optimal habitat for Butterfly barbs involves attention to tank size, water parameters, filtration, lighting, diet, and tank décor.
What is the minimum tank size for a single Butterfly barb?
A minimum of 54 liters is recommended to provide adequate space and maintain stable water conditions.
What are the ideal water parameters for Butterfly barbs?
They thrive in temperatures between 22–25°C, with a pH range of 5.8–6.9, and soft water hardness between 0–6°dH.
Effective filtration is crucial to maintain water quality, but it should not create strong currents, as Butterfly barbs prefer gentle water flow. Moderate lighting is suitable, and incorporating floating plants can help diffuse light and provide shaded areas.
As omnivores, Butterfly barbs accept high-quality flake or pellet foods but benefit from a varied diet that includes live or frozen foods like daphnia and brine shrimp to enhance coloration and health.
Decorate the tank with live plants, driftwood, and rocks to offer hiding spots and mimic their natural environment. A dark substrate can accentuate their colors, and adding leaf litter can create a more natural setting.
Do Butterfly barbs require a specific tank setup?
Yes, a well-planted tank with ample hiding spots and gentle water flow closely resembles their natural habitat and promotes well-being.
Origin and Habitat
Butterfly barbs are endemic to the central Congo Basin in Africa, inhabiting slow-moving, shallow rainforest streams and swamps. These environments are characterized by dense vegetation, soft, acidic, cool water, and substrates covered with fallen leaves and branches. The water is typically stained brown due to tannins released by decomposing plant matter.
Where are Butterfly barbs naturally found?
They are native to the central Congo Basin in Africa.
What type of environment do Butterfly barbs prefer?
They thrive in slow-moving, shallow rainforest streams and swamps with dense vegetation and soft, acidic water.
Temperament and Compatibility
Butterfly barbs are peaceful, shoaling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 8 individuals to promote natural behavior and reduce stress. They are best suited for species-specific tanks or with similarly sized, peaceful African species. Due to their shy nature, they may be intimidated or outcompeted for food by larger or more boisterous tankmates.
Can Butterfly barbs be kept with other fish species?
Yes, but they should be housed with similarly sized, peaceful species to prevent intimidation and competition for food.
How many Butterfly barbs should be kept together?
A group of at least 8 individuals is recommended to encourage natural shoaling behavior and reduce stress.
Interesting Facts
Butterfly barbs exhibit a distinct pecking order among males, with dominant individuals displaying brighter coloration. They are egg scatterers, depositing eggs among plants or spawning mops. The species was named in honor of Révérend Père Gustaaf Hulstaert, a missionary and naturalist who collected the type specimen.
How do Butterfly barbs reproduce?
They are egg scatterers, laying eggs among plants or spawning mops without parental care.
Who was the Butterfly barb named after?
The species was named after Révérend Père Gustaaf Hulstaert, a missionary and naturalist who collected the type specimen.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:
Overview
Recommended Tank Size 26.4 Gallon (for groups of 8 or more) |
Minimum Group Size 8 |
Minimum Tank Volume 14.3 Gallon |
Maximum Adult Length 1.4 inch |
Average Adult Length 1.4 inch |
Shoaling (6+ required) Yes |
Preferred Water Type Soft, acidic freshwater |
Temperature Range (°C) 22–25 |
pH Range 5.8–6.9 |
Water Hardness (dGH) 0–6 |
Typical Lifespan (years) 2 years |