Two-spot Barb

Barbodes binotatus

Two-spot Barb (Barbodes binotatus) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Barb & Shark. Minimum tank in the app: 21 US gal min; aim for 68–81°F and pH 6–7.5. Details below match the app.

Two-spot Barb (Barbodes binotatus) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelEasy
TemperamentPeaceful
Min tank size21 US gal min
pH range6–7.5
Temperature68–81°F
Max size3.1 in (8.0 cm)
Captive lifespan5–8 years
SchoolingYes · 6+ recommended

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.

Natural distribution

Asia

  • East & Southeast Asia

Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.

Two-spot Barb Tank Setup

Plan for at least 21 US gal min of water—that is the minimum in our database for a workable setup, not a challenge to crowd fish. Aim to hold 68–81°F and pH 6–7.5 without daily drama. These fish use the Mid zone most, so put wood, plants, or open water there accordingly.

What Do Two-spot Barbs Eat?

We record diet as Omnivore. Offer a few food types that match—dry, frozen, or gel—and swap now and then. One flake every day for a year is how dull color and gut trouble creep in.

Two-spot Barb Tank Mates

Temperament in the data: Peaceful. Flagged as a fin nipper, so long flowing fins and slow targets are a poor match. Common spotted barb. Active schooling fish; keep in groups of 6+. May nip fins. Plug your full stock list into the stocking calculator—single-species compatibility scores are hints, not a whole-tank verdict.

Are Two-spot Barbs Good for Beginners?

Often a sensible first fish once the tank is cycled and you are willing to test water sometimes. Skip the impulse buy on the same day you set up the tank.

Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.

Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.