Description

Denison Barb – Sahyadria denisonii

The Denison Barb, sometimes referred to as Torpedo Barb or Roseline Shark is a highly prized large shoaling species of fish native to India. They are a peaceful shoaling species that should be kept in a group of at least 6 specimens. Smaller numbers tend to be more skittish and a lot less active.

Denison Barb Set Up

We recommend an aquarium of at least 120cm (4ft) in length, although larger aquariums are strongly preferred as Denison Barbs are exceptionally active swimmers that spend much of the day cruising the aquarium. Choose firm plants like anubias and java fern as these barbs like to occasionally nibble on softer, more delicate plants. Flow should be fast, the water very well oxygenated and the temperature at the lower end.

Behaviour

Denison Barbs are energetic, fast-swimming fish that spend much of their day cruising the middle levels of the aquarium. Unlike many barb species, they are generally peaceful and rarely show aggression towards one another when kept in suitably large groups.

They are naturally shoaling fish and become far more confident when kept in groups of at least six, although larger groups will often display even more natural behaviour. Well-established groups tend to swim together in loose formations, constantly exploring the aquarium and investigating any new additions to their environment.

Although active throughout the day, Denison Barbs are not boisterous fish. They simply require plenty of open swimming space and highly oxygenated water to remain healthy and display their best colours.

Tank Mates

They can be kept in a community as long as there are no particularly small fish as they’re likely to be eaten. They make great companions for Pencilfish, Rainbow Shiners, hillstream loaches, Rainbowfish, Giant Danios, some cichlids and other barbs.

Feeding

Food can be offered in the form of tropical pellets and fresh or frozen fish foods such as mysis, brine shrimp, bloodworm, daphnia and mosquito larvae.

FAQ

Can Denison Barbs be kept with Angelfish?

We wouldn’t recommend these two together. Although there is no issue on a behavioural level, they have very different preferences. Angelfish like to be warm and don’t do well in strong flow. Denison Barbs prefer cooler waters and strong flow.

Are Denison Barbs fin nippers?

No. Unlike Tiger Barbs, this species is not generally considered nippy.

Are they known for jumping?

Yes. Like many species of river fish, Denisons are accomplished jumpers. A tight fitting lid is highly recommended

Did you know? When these barbs first became available in the hobby, they were so popular that they were over fished by a huge margin and wild populations were in very real trouble. Thankfully, the fish you see in shops now are tank bred and very rarely wild. Wild specimens will often come with a very hefty pricetag.

If you have any questions about keeping this fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your queries

Why not check out our other photos of some of the best livestock to have graced our tanks!