Denison Barb care guide
Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii) — minimum tank 200 L, temperature 20-25 °C, pH 6.5-7.8.
Overview
The Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii), also called the Roseline Shark, is a slim, fast-swimming cyprinid endemic to the Western Ghats of southern India. The species shows a black lateral stripe overlaid with a bright red band along the anterior body.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Sahyadria
- Scientific name: Sahyadria denisonii
- Common synonyms: Roseline Shark, Red-line Torpedo Barb
Habitat
Native to clear, well-oxygenated hill streams and rivers of Kerala and Karnataka, India, with rocky substrates and moderate to strong flow.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (52.8 US gal)
- Adult size: 10-15 cm
- Temperature: 20-25 °C (68-77 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.8
- GH: 5-15 °dGH
- Water flow: strong
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
An omnivore. Offer pellets, flakes and a variety of small live or frozen foods.
Compatibility
A peaceful but very active schooling species that needs a long aquarium of 200 L or more. Keep a group of at least six. Suitable tankmates include active mid-water cyprinids and other peaceful current-loving species.
Breeding
Captive breeding is largely confined to commercial hatcheries using hormonal induction; hobbyist breeding is uncommon.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered. Wild populations are threatened by habitat alteration and historical over-collection; aquarium specimens today are largely captive-bred.