Species profile
Panda Barb
Haludaria melanampyx
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
180 L minimum aquarium
6–7.5 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Active Western Ghats barb. The legacy scientific name H. fasciata is the Melon Barb; current aquarium references distinguish Panda Barb as H. melanampyx.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
5.5–7
GH
Up to 12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–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
Lively shoaling fish rather than a true bully, but long fins and tiny tankmates are poor choices. A proper group and strong oxygenation reduce nuisance behaviour.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
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
180 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Haludaria melanampyx
Alternative names
Panda Barb, Haludaria melanampyx, Puntius melanampyx, Dravidia melanampyx
Native range
Southern peninsular India, including Goa/south Canara through the Western Ghats to the Nilgiris and Cauvery drainage.
Natural habitat
Running hill-stream habitat. Provide a long aquarium with moderate-to-strong flow, high oxygen, open swimming space and robust marginal planting/cover.
Diet & feeding
Omnivorous barb. Feed quality dry foods, vegetable matter and frozen invertebrates; soft plants may be grazed/eaten.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Sexual dimorphism is modest; mature females are typically fuller-bodied, while males tend to be slimmer and more intensely coloured when displaying.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder. Use a separate breeding setup if fry are required because adults will consume eggs.