Mahecola Barb

A slim barb from rivers in the Western Ghats of India, long confused with other fish in the trade. It prefers cooler water.

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.

Fairly tolerant of different water, if it is clean and stable. This fish prefers cooler water than most tropical fish, and it may not need a heater in a warm room.

An omnivore that eats small invertebrates and plant matter. Flake and pellets with frozen foods suit it.

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.