Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii)

The Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii) is also known by tropical fish keeping enthusiasts as the Red Lined Torpedo Barb or the Rose Line Shark.

The Denison Barb is a shoaling species that is found in the fast flowing rivers, tributaries, and streams in the state of Kerala and South Karnataka, in Southern India.  The demand for this beautiful species is so strong that it is reported to be India’s most popular aquarium fish export.  Unfortunately, due to over collecting, the fish is heading towards extinction if existing breeding programs don’t catch up with the demand.

Denison Barbs are longer than other barbs and torpedo shaped for speed.  They are fast swimmers that in their natural environment, like to jump out of the water.  To protect themselves from larger predatory species, Denison Barbs can be found living in huge shoals.

The fish is predominately silver in color with a black line running the length of its body and a bright red stripe running across its eyes to mid-body. It has a red edge on its dorsal fin, and yellow and black accents on the tips of its caudal fin.

Unlike some of the other barbs, the Denison Barb is a peaceful fish that is a welcome addition to any large community aquarium. They get along well with wide range of other similarly sized peaceful and semi-aggressive tropical fish species but need highly oxygenated water in order to thrive.

In an aquarium environment, they should be housed in groups of at least 6 – 8 specimens and because of their penchant for jumping, their tank must have a tightly fitting lid.

In addition to good water flow, Denison Barbs appreciate a densely planted aquarium with plenty of room to dart around and hide when they feel threatened.

In the wild Denison Barbs consume plant and animal based foods. They are not picky eaters but in an aquarium environment they should be provided a balanced diet of plant, algae, and meaty foods.

High quality flakes, carnivore pellets, live, frozen or freeze dried bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex will keep Denison Barbs healthy and happy.

Denison Barbs are seldom available for purchase but when available, they are usually 1-1/2″ to 2″ in size.

Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii)

Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 60-78° F, KH 4-10, pH 6.8-7.8
Max. Size: 5 – 6″
Color Form: Black, Red, White
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Good Community Tank Fish
Origin: India, Captive Bred
Family: Cyprinidae
Lifespan: 8 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

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  1. […] the Denison Barb, the Karnataka Barb is torpedo shaped and much longer than most other barbs.   They are fast […]


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