Common Name: Six Banded Distichodus
Scientific Name: Distichodus sexfasciatus
Other Names: Six-Stripe Distichodus, Six-Bar Distichodus, Orangefin Distichodus
The Six Banded Distichodus is a striking, large-bodied characin known for its bold black vertical bands over a golden to copper-orange body. This species is highly active, powerful, and semi-aggressive, requiring a spacious aquarium and experienced care. Its vibrant coloration and strong schooling nature make it an attractive choice for large community aquariums with similarly sized tank mates.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, Distichodus sexfasciatus inhabits large rivers, floodplains, and lakes with strong currents and abundant submerged vegetation. It thrives in warm, well-oxygenated waters with sandy or muddy substrates and prefers areas with driftwood, rock formations, and open swimming space.
Size and Lifespan:
This species grows quite large, reaching up to 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) in captivity, with some wild specimens growing even larger. With proper care, they can live for 10-15 years.
Diet and Behavior:
The Six Banded Distichodus is an omnivore with a preference for plant-based foods. In the wild, it grazes on aquatic vegetation, algae, and detritus, while occasionally consuming small invertebrates. In captivity, it requires a diet rich in plant matter, including spirulina-based pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), algae wafers, and occasional protein sources such as bloodworms and chopped tilapia. This species is semi-aggressive and highly territorial, particularly as it matures. It is best kept in large tanks with plenty of space to prevent aggression toward tank mates.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Distichodus sexfasciatus in captivity is extremely rare and undocumented. In the wild, they are migratory spawners, releasing eggs in large river systems during seasonal flooding. Most specimens available in the aquarium trade are wild-caught or farm-raised.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 180 gallons is required for juveniles, with a larger tank (250+ gallons) needed for adult specimens. Their ideal tank setup includes a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate, open swimming space with rock formations and driftwood for shelter, strong filtration with high oxygenation, moderate to strong water flow to mimic river conditions, and dim to moderate lighting to enhance their coloration.
Ideal Tank Mates:
The Six Banded Distichodus can coexist with other large, fast-moving fish that can tolerate its semi-aggressive nature. Suitable tank mates include Arowanas, Pacu, Silver Dollars, Larger Barbs, Giant Gouramis, Plecos, and robust Cichlidssuch as Oscars, Severums, and Peacock Bass. Avoid housing them with small or slow-moving fish, as they may be bullied or outcompeted for food.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. Their large size, strong swimming nature, and aggressive tendencies require an experienced aquarist and a well-maintained, spacious tank.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 6-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-12 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- This species requires a large tank with strong water movement to stay healthy.
- They have strong teeth and may nip at plants, tank decorations, and even tank mates.
- Frequent water changes and high-quality filtration are essential to maintain water quality due to their high waste output.
The Six Banded Distichodus is a stunning, high-energy fish best suited for large, well-maintained aquariums with experienced keepers. With the right setup, it makes an impressive and rewarding addition to a big freshwater community.
