Description
Melon Barb (Haludaria fasciata)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Haludaria fasciata
Common Names: Melon Barb, Striped Barb, Black-Banded Barb
Family: Cyprinidae (Carp and Barb Family)
Order: Cypriniformes
Origin: Southwestern India — endemic to the rivers and streams of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu (Western Ghats region).
Size: 6–7 cm (2.5–3 inches)
Lifespan: 5 – 7 years
Tank Zone: Middle
🌊 Water Parameters
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
🐠 Characteristics
Body Shape: Slender and elongated body typical of barbs.
Coloration: Soft orange to melon-pink body with three bold black vertical bands.
Markings: Males develop a deeper red or orange hue when breeding.
Fins: Transparent to reddish fins; males have slightly more coloration.
Behavior: Active and peaceful; best kept in groups.
Special Feature: Native Indian species that adds natural tropical charm to aquariums.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Food: Flake food, micro pellets, blanched vegetables (like spinach or cucumber), bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp.
Feeding Frequency: 2 times daily in small portions.
Tip: Include live or frozen foods to enhance the orange coloration.
🏠 Tank Setup
Minimum Tank Size: 80 liters (20 gallons)
Substrate: Fine gravel or sand with plants.
Décor: Rocks, driftwood, and open swimming space.
Lighting: Moderate to bright — enhances body coloration.
Water Flow: Moderate; they enjoy gentle currents similar to hill streams.
👥 Behavior & Compatibility
Nature: Peaceful schooling fish.
Best Kept In: Groups of 6 or more to prevent fin nipping.
Tank Mates: Ideal with tetras, rasboras, danios, corydoras, and gouramis.
Avoid: Long-finned or slow-moving fish.
✅ Do’s
• Maintain a planted setup with swimming room.
• Keep in groups for natural social behavior.
• Offer a varied diet for best color.
❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep singly — may become aggressive or shy.
• Avoid overfeeding to prevent water clouding.
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Melon Barb (Haludaria fasciata) is a lively, hardy, and beautifully colored Indian barb that adds a splash of soft orange and black to any community aquarium. Peaceful, active, and easy to care for — perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
