Description

Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Sahyadria denisonii

• Family: Cyprinidae

• Origin: India (Western Ghats rivers)

• Size: 4 – 6 inches (10 – 15 cm)

• Lifespan: 5 – 7 years (longer with good care)

• Tank Zone: Mid dwellers

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 100 – 250 ppm

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5

• Temperature: 22 – 27°C (72 – 81°F)

• Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Also called Roseline Shark or Red-Line Torpedo Barb.

• Silver body with a bold black horizontal line and a bright red stripe above it.

• Tail fin often tipped with yellow and black.

• Very active swimmers, prefer long tanks.

• Peaceful but energetic – need companions of similar size and speed.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous.

• Diet: High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, spirulina, blanched veggies (spinach, zucchini).

• Feeding: 2–3 times daily in small portions.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (larger for schools).

• Filtration: Strong filter with high oxygen flow (they love current).

• Decor: Open swimming space with rocks, driftwood, and hardy plants.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: 6 or more (shoaling fish; small groups cause stress).

• Tank Mates: Rainbowfish, large Tetras, Barbs, Gouramis, Plecos, peaceful Cichlids.

• Avoid: Slow or long-finned fish (they may outcompete or nip).

✅ Do’s

• Keep in groups for natural schooling behavior.

• Provide a long tank with open swimming space.

• Maintain strong water flow and oxygen.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep singly or in pairs – they get stressed.

• Don’t overcrowd or keep in small tanks.

• Don’t mix with tiny fish that may be intimidated.

⭐ Quick Tips

• One of the most stunning barbs with a torpedo shape and red stripe.

• Active, peaceful shoaler – best in large, well-filtered aquariums.

• Perfect centerpiece fish for medium to large tanks