Heiko Bleher introduces an undescribed Barilius he found while on a trip to India.
Origin:
River Meruvambayi, near Nirveli, Kerala, India.
Water:
pH 6.61, GH 3, water 28.4°C/83.1°F, air 33.6°C/92.5°F.
Habitat:
Clear water flowing over a light, sandy soil and stone slabs. Several submerged aquatic plants were there, including the lily-like Nymphoides indica, Limnophila indica, Myriophyllum tuberculatum, Bacopa cf. monnieri and along the shore and partly underwater Marsilea quadrifolia. Part of their habitat has been destroyed with waste deposited along the shores.
Notes:
Most Barilius grow to 10-15cm/4-6”, including the real B. bakeri, but this discovery reaches just 8-9cm/3.1-3.5”. This species and the colourful B. sp. ‘2’ have different morphology to other Barilius and different colours.
Aquarium:
Barilius are very active and appreciate fast-flowing water, so benefit from a medium to large tank with a powerful filter. They’re a shoaling species, so always purchase them as a group of six or more. They mix well with Garra and Devario.
This item was first published in the September 2009 issue of Practical Fishkeeping magazine. It may not be reproduced without written permission.