Species profile
Mascara Barb
Dawkinsia assimilis
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
240 L minimum aquarium
10–12 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Do not undersize the aquarium because juveniles are sold small. A group of adults is fast and space-hungry.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
19–25 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
3–15 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: 8
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.2
Strong, active schooling barb. Generally sociable in a good group but too boisterous for timid or slow long-finned companions.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Yes
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
5–8 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
240 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Dawkinsia assimilis
Alternative names
Mascara Barb, Puntius assimilis, Systomus assimilis
Native range
Nethravathi drainage and neighbouring southern Western Ghats river systems, India.
Natural habitat
Clear flowing rivers with rock, gravel and sand; benefits from strong filtration, oxygenation and open swimming lanes.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on invertebrates, algae and plant/detrital material; use varied dry foods with vegetables and frozen/live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males show stronger colour and longer filamentous fin development; females are deeper-bodied and fuller.
Breeding
Egg-scattering cyprinid with no parental care. Adults are opportunistic egg predators.