Rhombo Snakeskin Barb – The Spotted Beauty of the Barb World

If you're looking to add a splash of unique pattern and energy to your freshwater aquarium, the Rhombo Snakeskin Barb (Desmopuntius rhomboocellatus) is a striking choice. Known for its beautiful snakeskin-like pattern and lively schooling behavior, this lesser-known barb species is a hidden gem among aquarists.

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? Species Overview

• Common Name: Rhombo Snakeskin Barb

• Scientific Name: Desmopuntius rhomboocellatus

• Origin: Borneo (Indonesia)

• Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6 cm)

• Lifespan: 4–6 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, active

• Diet: Omnivore

• Tank Level: Mid-level swimmer

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? Eye-Catching Appearance

The Rhombo Snakeskin Barb gets its name from the distinctive dark, rhombus-shaped spots on its golden-orange body, which resemble a snake’s scale pattern. Males often display more intense coloration, especially during breeding.

Its shimmering body and constantly moving school create a mesmerizing effect in planted tanks—especially when kept in a group of 6 or more.

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? Behavior & Compatibility

This barb is peaceful and active, making it well-suited for a community aquarium. Unlike some other barbs, they are not aggressive fin-nippers and generally get along well with similarly sized, peaceful fish.

Good Tank Mates:

• Tetras

• Rasboras

• Corydoras

• Dwarf Gouramis

• Loaches

• Livebearers

• Small Rainbowfish

Avoid mixing them with slow-moving or long-finned species like bettas or fancy guppies, just to prevent any potential nipping in tight setups.

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? Tank Setup & Conditions

• Tank Size: 20 gallons or more (larger is better for schooling behavior)

• Substrate: Dark gravel or sand helps enhance coloration

• Decor: Plants, driftwood, and hiding spots

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 74–80°F

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Soft to moderately hard water

• Filtration: Moderate flow preferred

• Lighting: Medium

A natural aquascape with leaf litter and soft lighting will bring out the Rhombo Barb’s best colors and make them feel right at home.

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?️ Feeding

Rhombo Snakeskin Barbs are opportunistic omnivores. In the wild, they feed on insects, algae, and organic debris. In captivity, they accept a wide range of foods:

Suggested Diet:

• High-quality micro pellets

• Crushed flakes

• Frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini) occasionally

Feed small portions once or twice daily for best health and color.

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? Breeding Notes

Breeding Rhombo Barbs is possible in a separate breeding tank. They are egg scatterers, and like many barbs, they do not guard their eggs. Provide dense fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop, and remove adults after spawning to protect the eggs.

Fry hatch within 1–2 days and can be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until large enough for baby brine shrimp.

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✅ Why Choose the Rhombo Snakeskin Barb?

✔ Unique spotted pattern that stands out
✔ Peaceful and community-friendly
✔ Easy to care for and fun to watch
✔ Great for planted or Southeast Asian-themed tanks

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