Six-Barred Distichodus (Distichodus sexfasciatus) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 150 gallons and 75-82°F. A boldly striped African fish that is sold small but reaches well over a foot. It eats most live plants and can bully smaller tankmates, so it fits large tanks with fish of similar size.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Distichodus sexfasciatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Distichodontidae |
| Origin | Congo basin, Africa |
| Adult size | 12-16 in |
| Minimum tank | 150 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, territorial with its own kind |
| Social behavior | Solitary or very large group |
| Swim level | Mid to lower |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Mostly herbivore: spirulina pellets, blanched greens, some frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 10+ years |
Quick tips
- Plan on a very large tank before buying.
- It eats most live plants; use tough plants or none.
- Offer greens and vegetable-based foods daily.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi