Six-Barred Distichodus (Distichodus sexfasciatus)

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The Six-Barred Distichodus is a bold, unmistakable African river fish known for its striking vertical banding and powerful presence. Juveniles display crisp black bars over a silvery body, creating dramatic contrast and immediate visual impact. As they mature, these fish develop into large, commanding swimmers that bring true river-fish energy to expansive aquariums.

This is not a subtle species—it’s one for aquarists who appreciate scale, motion, and authority.

What We Love About This Fish:

• High-Contrast Banding: Bold vertical bars that stand out even in very large aquariums.
• Powerful Swimmer: Constant, purposeful movement typical of large river species.
• Distinct African Origin: A standout beyond typical community fish.
• Long-Term Presence: Grows into an impressive, long-lived centerpiece fish.

Natural Habitat:

Six-Barred Distichodus are native to large rivers and tributaries throughout Central Africa, including the Congo River Basin. These environments feature strong current, open swimming space, submerged wood, and seasonal vegetation. The species is adapted to well-oxygenated water and wide river channels—conditions that should be reflected in captivity.

Aquascaping:

Six-Barred Distichodus require aquariums designed around space, flow, and durability, prioritizing long, uninterrupted swimming lanes over vertical complexity.

Hardscape:

Hardscape should be sturdy and minimal. Large driftwood pieces, smooth boulders, and rounded river stones create structure without restricting movement. Open sand or fine gravel substrates work best and reflect the broad riverbeds this species inhabits. Avoid delicate décor—this is a strong, active fish that will easily displace unstable elements.

Plants:

Live plants are optional and often temporary. If plants are used, choose hardy, well-anchored species such as Anubias attached securely to wood or rock. Many aquarists opt for a wood-and-stone river layout instead, allowing the fish’s size, patterning, and movement to dominate the aquarium.

Botanicals:

Botanicals such as Indian Almond Leaves or bark may be used sparingly for a natural aesthetic, but water clarity and oxygenation are more important than tannin levels. Strong filtration and consistent water movement are essential to replicate native river conditions.

Diet and Feeding:

Six-Barred Distichodus are omnivores with a strong herbivorous lean. Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets, wafers, and substantial vegetable matter such as spirulina-based foods and blanched greens. Occasional protein sources may be offered, but plant material should make up the bulk of their diet.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Best suited for large, species-appropriate aquariums or African river communities. Compatible tank mates include other robust African fish of similar size and temperament. Avoid small fish that could be viewed as food and overly aggressive species that may cause constant conflict.

Shrimp Compatibility:

Not compatible. Shrimp and other small invertebrates will be eaten.

Breeding:

Breeding Six-Barred Distichodus in home aquariums is extremely rare due to their size and riverine spawning requirements. This species is not considered a practical breeding project in captivity.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 75°–82°F (24°–28°C)
• pH: 6.5–7.8
• KH: 4–12 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons (larger strongly recommended as adults)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous with heavy plant-matter requirements.
• Social Behavior: Semi-assertive; best kept with robust tank mates.
• Origin: Wild-type species
• Average Adult Size: 18–24 inches (45–60 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: Juveniles (size varies)

Q & A

Is the Six-Barred Distichodus a community fish?
No. Its size and strength make it unsuitable for standard community aquariums.

Will it eat live plants?
Yes. Most soft plants will be grazed or destroyed unless very hardy and well-secured.

How fast do they grow?
They grow steadily with proper space and diet, eventually becoming very large fish.

Do they need strong current?
Moderate to strong flow is recommended to match their riverine origins and support oxygenation.

Can they be kept alone?
Yes. Many aquarists keep them as a single-specimen centerpiece fish.

How long do they live?
With proper care, Six-Barred Distichodus commonly live well over a decade.

Why We Think You’ll Love Them:

The Six-Barred Distichodus is for aquarists who want something bold, powerful, and unapologetically large. In the right setup, it delivers presence and personality few freshwater fish can match.

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