Species profile
Denison Barb
Dawkinsia denisonii
Peaceful
Moderate care
300 L minimum aquarium
12–15 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Fast, oxygen-demanding Indian river barb; a six-plus group needs a long tank with strong flow and open swimming room.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
15–25 °C
pH
6.8–7.8
GH
5–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
High
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.8
Active shoaling fish suited to cooler, highly oxygenated moving water. Avoid warm sluggish community setups.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Dawkinsia denisonii
Alternative names
Denison Barb, Red-line Torpedo Barb, Roseline Shark, Sahyadria denisonii, Puntius denisonii
Native range
Western Ghats of India, especially Kerala and adjoining river systems.
Natural habitat
Clear, well-oxygenated hill streams and rivers with rock, gravel and strong seasonal current.
Diet & feeding
Generalist feeder taking invertebrates and plant/algal matter; provide varied foods rather than relying on flake alone.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females are usually deeper-bodied; males can be slimmer and more intensely coloured, but dimorphism is not dramatic.
Breeding
Spawning is not reliably routine in ordinary community aquaria; commercial propagation is more established than casual home breeding.