Haludaria fasciata, formerly classified as a Barbus, is an elegant and active schooling fish** native to the clear rivers of India. With its **dark vertical stripes** and golden to greenish highlights, it brings movement and liveliness to any well-planted community tank.

Behaviour & maintenance

This fish is :

• Gregarious: should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals
• Very peaceful: compatible with other small, calm fish
• Active: swims in schools in the middle of the tank

Perfect for beginners and Asian theme tanks alike.

Feeding

Omnivorous:

• Quality micro-granules or flakes
• Supplements: artemia, daphnia, bloodworms
• Poached vegetables or spirulina to support coloration

A varied diet promotes vibrant colours and good digestive health.

Water quality

• Temperature: 22 - 27°C
• pH: 6.5 - 7.5
• GH: 5 - 12 °dGH
• KH: 3 - 8 °KH
• Conductivity: 150 - 300 µS

This cyprinid tolerates a wide range of parameters, but prefers slightly acidic, well-oxygenated water.

Decor & environment

Recommendations:

• Fine sand or dark gravel to bring out its colours
• Floating plants to filter the light
• Free swimming area in the middle of the tank

Minimum volume: 60 L for a small bank.

Maintenance sheet

Scientific name	Haludaria fasciata
Common name	Striped Barb / Melon Barb
Adult size	6 - 7 cm
Origin	India (Western Ghats)
Temperature	22 - 27 °C
pH	6.5 - 7.5
GH	5 - 12 °dGH
KH	3 - 8 °KH
Conductivity	150 - 300 µS
Life expectancy	5 - 6 years
Behaviour	Regular, peaceful
Living zone	Environment
Minimum volume	60 L (group of 6+)
Diet	Omnivore

Aquabota tip

Combine it with other Asian species such as Boraras, Trichogaster or Danio for a harmonious regional tank. Subdued lighting and a dark background will highlight its beautiful dark stripes and metallic sheen.