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Product Details

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Size

4cm - 20cm

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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

  • Tank Type: Freshwater

  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH

  • Minimum Tank Size:

    • Juveniles: 125 gallons

    • Adults: 250+ gallons (can grow 18–24 inches in captivity)

  • Filtration: Strong filtration system (canister or sump) to handle high bio-load

  • Water Flow: Moderate current to replicate riverine habitat

  • Oxygenation: High—ensure vigorous surface agitation or aeration

  • Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

  • Decor: Open swimming space with hardy decorations like driftwood and rocks


🧠 Temperament & Behavior

  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial especially as it matures

  • Social Behavior: Best kept singly unless in an exceptionally large tank with a group of 5+

  • Activity Level: High—active swimmer that needs space

  • Compatibility: May chase or nip tank mates, particularly slower or weaker ones

  • Ideal Aquarist Level: Intermediate to advanced


🐠 Compatible Tank Mates

  • Good Companions:

    • Large characins (e.g., silver dollars)

    • Robust cichlids (e.g., Oscars, Severums)

    • Armored catfish like large Synodontis or Plecos

    • Bichirs and large knife fish

  • Avoid:

    • Small, slow, or long-finned fish

    • Fragile or highly territorial species

    • Other Distichodus unless in large groups with ample space


🍽️ Feeding Habits

  • Diet: Omnivorous (with a strong plant preference)

  • Preferred Foods:

    • Spirulina pellets, algae wafers

    • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber)

    • Occasional protein: krill, bloodworms, earthworms

  • Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily

  • Feeding Style: Greedy and competitive—ensure all tank mates get food

  • Tip: Supplement plant matter to prevent fin nipping or aggression


🛠️ Care & Maintenance

  • Care Level: Moderate to advanced

  • Growth Rate: Fast—young fish can outgrow tanks quickly

  • Water Quality Needs: High; weekly water changes (30–50%) recommended

  • Decor Tips: Hardy rooted plants may survive, but soft plants will be eaten

  • Disease Risk: Moderate; stress or poor water conditions can lead to infections

  • 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

SGD 180.00

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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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