Indian Hifin Barb

A small barb from the Ganges and Brahmaputra, with a tall dorsal fin on the male. Several undescribed relatives are traded under this name.

Check the scientific name when buying, as common names vary between sellers and countries.

Mature females are usually rounder in the belly, and males are usually slimmer and often brighter.

A long tank with open swimming water, plants around the edges and steady filtration suits this fish. A darker substrate and some floating plants usually bring out its colour.

Active and social, and most settled when kept with its own kind.

Keep a group of at least 6, and more if you can. Larger groups are calmer and show better colour and behaviour.

Not territorial, although males may spar and display.

Suits a community of similar-sized, peaceful fish that like the same water. Avoid large predators, which will treat it as food. It may eat baby shrimp. Choose its tankmates with care.

Keep the pH steady, because this fish is sensitive to swings. Keep the temperature steady.

A small barb from slow, weedy water. Fine flake, micro pellets and frozen daphnia keep it in condition.

Feed small amounts, and remove anything left after a few minutes.

Not commonly bred in aquariums, and little has been recorded about how it spawns.