The spanner T barb (Barbodes lateristriga), also known as the T-bar, is a freshwater fish with a silver body and a prominent black "T" or "spanner" shaped marking across its flanks and tail. They are an active, omnivorous species that can grow up to 18 cm (7.1 inches) and have a peaceful temperament when kept in groups of five or more. Their fins are often tinged with orange or red.
Physical description
Coloration: Primarily silver with a distinct black "T" or spanner-shaped marking.
Shape: A fusiform (torpedo-shaped) body.
Size: Can reach up to 18 cm (7.1 inches) in length, though aquarium specimens may grow larger than those in the wild.
Fins: Often have an orange or red tint.
Sexual dimorphism: Females have a more rounded abdomen than males; males may develop small white spots around the mouth during spawning season.
Habitat and behavior
Native range: Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra, and Java.
Natural habitat: Clear freshwater streams, rivers, and sometimes shallow lakes.
Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be boisterous and nippy, so they are best kept in schools of at least 5-6 individuals to reduce aggression.
Diet: Omnivorous, accepting a wide range of foods including flakes, pellets, and frozen foods like bloodworms.
Aquarium care
Tank size: Requires a large aquarium due to their adult size.
Tank mates: Suitable with other peaceful fish of similar or larger size.
Water conditions: Tolerant of a range of water parameters but thrive in clean water with moderate movement and high oxygen levels. Seriously Fish recommends weekly water changes of 30-50%.
The spanner T barb (Barbodes lateristriga), also known as the T-bar, is a freshwater fish with a silver body and a prominent black "T" or "spanner" shaped marking across its flanks and tail. They are an active, omnivorous species that can grow up to 18 cm (7.1 inches) and have a peaceful temperament when kept in groups of five or more. Their fins are often tinged with orange or red.
Physical description
Coloration: Primarily silver with a distinct black "T" or spanner-shaped marking.
Shape: A fusiform (torpedo-shaped) body.
Size: Can reach up to 18 cm (7.1 inches) in length, though aquarium specimens may grow larger than those in the wild.
Fins: Often have an orange or red tint.
Sexual dimorphism: Females have a more rounded abdomen than males; males may develop small white spots around the mouth during spawning season.
Habitat and behavior
Native range: Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra, and Java.
Natural habitat: Clear freshwater streams, rivers, and sometimes shallow lakes.
Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be boisterous and nippy, so they are best kept in schools of at least 5-6 individuals to reduce aggression.
Diet: Omnivorous, accepting a wide range of foods including flakes, pellets, and frozen foods like bloodworms.
Aquarium care
Tank size: Requires a large aquarium due to their adult size.
Tank mates: Suitable with other peaceful fish of similar or larger size.
Water conditions: Tolerant of a range of water parameters but thrive in clean water with moderate movement and high oxygen levels. Seriously Fish recommends weekly water changes of 30-50%.
