Spanner Barb - Barbodes 5cm

Spanner Barb - Barbodes

The spanner or T barb is a fantastic larger growing barb species that displays great schooling behaviour and makes for a more practical alternative compared to other large-grown species such as tinfoils. These fish will be a perfect addition to larger aquariums and their size makes them a worthwhile dither fish consideration for larger tank mates. What these fish lack in colour range, they make up for in activity and contrast making for a unique but enjoyable display fish.

Spanner barbs get their name due to the black barring across the body which resembles a loose spanner-like shape. Reaching around 18 cm when fully grown spanner barbs are stocky fish, as juveniles they might resemble a small rasbora but as they mature their height and bulky nature really develops. The colouration also deepens with age as these fish sport an earthy light brown tone with darker highlights towards the face and fins. The belly area offers some shimmer with the metallic scales and most important of all would be the deep black bars these fish show. Spanner barbs are also quite plant-safe compared to other larger growing barbs such as filaments thus making them a great consideration to keep in a well-planted aquarium. Their peaceful nature also means they can be kept with smaller fish, so a unique and natural dynamic can be made when pairing these large barbs with smaller tank mates.

Breeding these spanner barbs is possible in the home aquarium as well. females will scatter eggs through fine-leafed plants which males will then fertilise. If you are looking to breed these fish intentionally, then it would be best to have them in a bare-bottom tank with a few interchangeable spawning mops that can be taken out to rear the eggs and subsequent fry. They can be conditioned to spawn with regular water changes and the use of protein-rich food such as brine shrimp.

Tank Recommendations for Spanner Barb - Barbodes
Being a large growing and active schooling barb, these fish need a minimum volume of around 400 litres. This aquarium size allows for a decent school of these barbs with room for other tank mates however larger aquariums will always be appreciated. Due to their open water nature, these fish are not too big on hardscape but the use of some driftwood and plants will help replicate a more natural environment.

Suitable Tank Buddies
The spanner barb is a peaceful fish with no real issues with aggression and will get along with a range of peaceful smaller and larger fish.

Usually Compatible
Tiger barbs, paradise fish, giant danios, severum, and similar species.

Sometimes Compatible
Fancy goldfish, Convict cichlids, Chocolate cichlids, and potentially slow or semi-aggressive fish.

Rarely Compatible
Any species that would prey on or constantly harm the spanner barb-like Oscars.

Feeding your Spanner Barb - Barbodes
Spanner barbs are a very easy fish to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Just like any fish though they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods. The ideal diet would be a good quality micro slow-sinking pellet or crushed flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or black worms.