

Product Details

Size
4cm - 20cm

Temperament
Semi Aggressive
The Six Banded Distichodus is a bold, beautifully striped freshwater fish ideal for large aquariums with experienced keepers and fast-moving tank mates.
🐟 Six Banded Distichodus (Distichodus sexfasciatus) – Aquarium Product Description & Care Guide
The Six Banded Distichodus is a powerful and vibrant freshwater fish known for its striking black vertical stripes on a golden-orange body. Native to the Congo River Basin, this African species can grow impressively large and displays both grace and energy in large, well-maintained tanks. Its bold markings, powerful swimming style, and curious personality make it a favorite among monster fish collectors and advanced aquarists.
While it may resemble peaceful fish at first glance, this species is semi-aggressive, especially toward its own kind or similarly sized tank mates. Proper space, diet, and tankmate selection are essential to maintain harmony in a community tank.
🌊 Water Conditions & Tank Setup
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Tank Type: Freshwater
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Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
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pH: 6.5–7.5
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Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH
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Minimum Tank Size:
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Juveniles: 125 gallons
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Adults: 250+ gallons (can grow 18–24 inches in captivity)
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Filtration: Strong filtration system (canister or sump) to handle high bio-load
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Water Flow: Moderate current to replicate riverine habitat
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Oxygenation: High—ensure vigorous surface agitation or aeration
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Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
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Decor: Open swimming space with hardy decorations like driftwood and rocks
🧠 Temperament & Behavior
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial especially as it matures
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Social Behavior: Best kept singly unless in an exceptionally large tank with a group of 5+
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Activity Level: High—active swimmer that needs space
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Compatibility: May chase or nip tank mates, particularly slower or weaker ones
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Ideal Aquarist Level: Intermediate to advanced
🐠 Compatible Tank Mates
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Good Companions:
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Large characins (e.g., silver dollars)
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Robust cichlids (e.g., Oscars, Severums)
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Armored catfish like large Synodontis or Plecos
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Bichirs and large knife fish
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Avoid:
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Small, slow, or long-finned fish
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Fragile or highly territorial species
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Other Distichodus unless in large groups with ample space
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🍽️ Feeding Habits
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Diet: Omnivorous (with a strong plant preference)
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Preferred Foods:
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Spirulina pellets, algae wafers
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Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber)
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Occasional protein: krill, bloodworms, earthworms
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Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily
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Feeding Style: Greedy and competitive—ensure all tank mates get food
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Tip: Supplement plant matter to prevent fin nipping or aggression
🛠️ Care & Maintenance
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Care Level: Moderate to advanced
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Growth Rate: Fast—young fish can outgrow tanks quickly
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Water Quality Needs: High; weekly water changes (30–50%) recommended
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Decor Tips: Hardy rooted plants may survive, but soft plants will be eaten
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Disease Risk: Moderate; stress or poor water conditions can lead to infections
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Lifespan: 10–12 years or more with proper care
📌 Summary
The Six Banded Distichodus (Distichodus sexfasciatus) is a show-stopping freshwater fish best suited for large, carefully managed aquariums. Its bold colors and energetic behavior make it a centerpiece species, but its size, diet, and temperament require commitment and experience. For aquarists seeking a visually impressive and active fish with a touch of attitude, this species delivers in full.
Six Banded Distichodus sexfasciatus
Product Options
3 pieces S (4 to 6 cm)
3 pieces M (8 to 12 cm)
3 pieces L (15 to 18 cm)
Delivery
Quantity
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