Arulius barb - Dawkinsia arulius
Scientific name: Dawkinsia arulius
Common name: Arulius barb
Family: Cyprinidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 12 cm (3.15 - 4.72 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.5
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 12°N (142.86 - 214.29ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: East Asia
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful
Usual place in the tank: Middle levels
Food and feeding
Quality flakes or pellet foods are ideal for Arulius barb, supplement the diet with blood worms or brine shrimp.
Origin
Arulius barbs are native to the Kaveri River basin of India.
Sexing
Males have a more extended dorsal fin than the females; their coloration will be more distinct as well.
Breeding
Arulius barbs will lay sticky eggs on any plants in the breeding tank, as with most barbs, the parents must be removed after spawning or the eggs will be eaten. The eggs should hatch after 24 hours and when the fry are free swimming they should be fed on Infusoria, later wean them onto newly hatched brine shrimp.
Lifespan
Expected lifespan is 5-10 years.
Short description
Best kept on groups of 6 fish or more, Puntius arulius have a reputation for being fin nippers but if kept with the right tank mates are peaceful. They prefer slightly acidic water but are tolerant of different hardness levels.