Species profile
Sixbar Distichodus
Distichodus sexfasciatus
Semi aggressive
Hard care
1,800 L minimum aquarium
40–76 cm adult size
Midwater
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A true monster fish. Scientific records reach about 76 cm standard length; the legacy 45 cm / 800 L profile was not remotely conservative enough for adult planning.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
10–20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
10
Juveniles may shoal, but adults can become quarrelsome. Single-specimen maintenance is usually more realistic unless the aquarium is exceptionally large.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
1,800 L
Minimum footprint
300 × 80 cm
Accepted scientific name
Distichodus sexfasciatus
Alternative names
Sixbar Distichodus, Six-banded Distichodus
Native range
Congo River basin and associated central African waters.
Natural habitat
Requires enormous swimming volume, heavy-duty filtration, robust décor and a very large footprint. Soft plants are likely to be eaten.
Diet & feeding
Plant material is important alongside fruits, vegetables, quality pellets and animal foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is difficult outside breeding condition.
Breeding
Not routinely bred in home aquaria; no practical domestic breeding protocol is established.