Puntius tambraparniei 3 - (Dawkinsia tambraparniei) — 3-4cm

Overview

Tambraparni Barb (Dawkinsia tambraparniei) is a lively, peaceful Indian barb that thrives in a spacious shoal and brings constant movement to a community aquarium. Native to the Tambraparni River basin in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India, this species is prized for its hardy nature, attractive markings, and active schooling behavior. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this energetic barb is ideal for the well-planted community aquarium keeper seeking a splash of South Indian charm.

Appearance

The Tambraparni Barb typically reaches around 12.8 cm in total length at maturity, making it a medium-sized barb. The body is elongated and silvery, often marked with subtle vertical bars or patches along the flanks. The fins may show hints of red or orange, especially in well-conditioned males during breeding displays. Females are generally more robust and less colorful. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Dawkinsia tambraparniei is endemic to the Tambraparni River basin in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. These waters are typically fast-flowing, well-oxygenated, and clear, with rocky or gravelly substrates and moderate to strong currents. The surrounding landscape is forested, providing shade and contributing organic matter to the water. During the monsoon season, water levels rise and flow increases, and fish move into flooded areas to spawn among submerged vegetation.

Aquarium Setup

A spacious aquarium of at least 120 litres is recommended for a shoal of Tambraparni Barbs, as they are active swimmers and require plenty of open space. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate and incorporate smooth rocks, driftwood, and robust live plants such as Vallisneria, Java fern, or Anubias to provide cover and visual interest. Ensure good filtration and moderate water movement to replicate the well-oxygenated rivers of their natural habitat. A secure lid is essential, as active barbs can jump when startled or during courtship displays.

Feeding

The Tambraparni Barb is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer quality flakes or micro-pellets as a staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Some vegetable matter and algae-based foods will support digestive health and color. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality and prevent overfeeding.

Behaviour

This barb is lively, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a shoal of at least six individuals. When kept in proper numbers, the Tambraparni Barb is peaceful and confident, displaying natural schooling behavior and engaging in playful interactions. Solitary specimens or those in undersized groups may become stressed or nippy. Males may engage in mild territorial displays during spawning, but serious aggression is rare. They occupy the middle and upper levels of the aquarium and are most active during feeding time.

Tank Mates

The Tambraparni Barb is suitable for a community aquarium with other active, peaceful fish. Good tankmates include other peaceful active community fish, danios, rasboras, small to medium peaceful barbs, and rainbowfish. Avoid slow-moving long-finned fish, very small fry or shrimp, aggressive territorial fish, and fin-nipping species kept in too-small groups.

Breeding

Breeding the Tambraparni Barb is likely achievable with careful preparation. This is likely an egg-scattering cyprinid that spawns among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops in a separate breeding tank. Condition adults with rich live and frozen foods, and provide soft, clean water. Remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering healthy, carefully selected barbs direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add active, attractive species like the Tambraparni Barb to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.