Rhombo Snakeskin Barb
Rhombo Snakeskin Barb (Desmopuntius rhomboocellatus) is a stunning and uncommonly available small barb from Borneo. The body displays a complex pattern of dark rhombus-shaped blotches and spots on a pale orange-gold background — creating the snakeskin-like reticulated pattern that gives the fish its name. Each scale appears individually marked, giving the fish a richly textured, almost painted appearance.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets (soak briefly) and Sera Vipan Baby make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily. Soft acidic water brings out the richest pattern coloration.
Native to the blackwater peat swamp forests and slow-moving streams of Borneo — one of the most biodiverse freshwater regions in the world. Like the Six Banded Barb, this species inhabits very soft, acidic, tannin-stained water. Indian almond leaves, driftwood, and dark substrate are important for best coloration.
Keep in groups of at least eight. Peaceful and entirely suitable for planted community tanks with other small, blackwater species — Six Banded Barb, small rasboras, and nano tetras are excellent companions. Soft acidic water is important for long-term health.
Egg-scatterer. The Rhombo Snakeskin Barb is a genuinely rare and beautiful collector's fish. Its complex snakeskin pattern is unlike most other barbs and rewards close observation — the detail of the individual scale markings is extraordinary in a fish of this size.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community |
| Typical Adult Size | 1.75 inches (4.5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 73–82°F (23–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 1–8 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–4 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed/soaked); Sera Vipan Baby |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Borneo (blackwater peat swamp forests) |
| Notes | Complex rhombus-spotted snakeskin pattern. Blackwater species — soft acidic water and tannin additions important. Uncommonly available. Pairs well with Six Banded Barb in blackwater planted setups. |
