Denison Barb

Sahyadria denisonii

Also known as: Roseline Shark, Torpedo Barb

Formerly: Puntius denisonii, Crossocheilus denisonii

A sleek torpedo of a fish with a red-and-black racing stripe; needs a big group and cool, oxygenated water.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

65–77°F

pH

6.5–7.8

Hardness

5–20 dGH

Max size

4.5 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temperament

Peaceful

Social

Schooling (6+)

Swim level

Middle

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

5-8 years

Breeding

Egg-scatterer

Suitability

Intermediate

Origin

Western Ghats, India

Denisons are active, schooling barbs that grow larger than people expect and need a long, cool, well-filtered tank. Wild populations are pressured by the trade, so captive-bred stock is preferable.