Denison Barb - Gold - Denison Barb var. "Gold" : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Gold Denison Barb (Sahyadria denisonii var. "Gold") is a species of remarkable allure and fascinating behavioural characteristics. Characterised by inherent radiance, these swift swimmers are the perfect addition to underwater habitats, accommodating both the neophyte and experienced aquarium enthusiasts. They epitomise the quintessential essence of their group-oriented origins, finding solace in group socialisation; a shoal of six or more often creates an intriguing panorama of aquatic existence.
Aquatic species such as proportionately sized Barbs, larger Tetras, Danios, Rainbowfish, and a variety of Cichlids serve as optimal companions in the aquatic environment. However, the animated, spirited disposition of the Gold Denison Barb may overstimulate species with a more subdued nature. Aquatic lifeforms characterised by reticence, fragility, or slower swimming speeds may find it difficult to exist harmoniously with these vivacious barbs.
The Gold Denison Barb's aquarium must be of considerable size, generously equipped with adequate space for unrestrained movement, reflecting the immense expanses of their natural habitats. Interspersed within this aquatic topography are complex formations of rock caves or driftwood adorned with durable flora such as Anubias. A robust root system is critical, securing the vegetation in place and ensuring it does not infringe upon the Barbs' uninhibited exploration of their aquatic domain.
The Barb's ecosystem should replicate the oxygen-abundant, pristine environments they are used to, devoid of excessive organic matter. Routine care, consistent water changes, and meticulous upkeep of their aquatic residence are paramount to their health and wellness. The demand for a strong current in their habitat is indispensable as a nostalgic reminder of the rapid waters that once cradled their existence. The Gold Denison Barb, renowned for its streamlined, torpedo-esque physique, showcases a mesmerising display of colours.
The Gold Denison Barb, with its captivating allure and a persona that is both dynamic and engaging, brings elegance to any aquarium it inhabits. Despite their enchanting charm, they remain affable inhabitants of their aquatic domain, necessitating care that is relatively straightforward, thereby delighting any aquarium enthusiast.
Denison Barb - Gold Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Differentiating between male and female Gold Denison Barbs can indeed be a challenging endeavour, particularly during their juvenile phase, given their common physical characteristics and colour patterns. However, as these Barbs advance in age and achieve sexual maturity, certain subtle discrepancies start to surface.
Female Gold Denison Barbs typically exhibit a slightly larger and more rounded abdomen compared to their male counterparts. Furthermore, the vibrancy of their colouration might not reach the same level of intensity displayed by the males, with females often appearing somewhat less luminous. These subtle differences, while they may demand a keen observer to discern, can prove immensely helpful when attempting to identify the gender of Gold Denison Barbs within your aquarium.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Denison Barb var. "Gold" |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1865 |
| Other Names | Redline Barb, Roseline Shark, Torpedo Barb, Denisonii Barb, Denison's Flying fox, Denison's Barb, Miss Kerala, Red-line Torpedo Barb, Bleeding Eye Barb |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Sahyadria |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 11 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 25 |
| KH | 4 - 10 |
| TDS | 50 - 140 |
| ℉ | 65 - 80 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 18 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
The Gold Denison Barb, the species from which the Gold Denison Barb has been selectively bred, originates from the rivers of the Western Ghats in India - notably the Chalakudy, Achankovil, Pamba, Chaliar, and Kallada. In these pristine, rapidly flowing, oxygen-abundant streams and rivers, they are commonly found in large shoals, swimming alongside their Mascara Barb counterparts. The encompassing lush vegetation and rocky substrates set the perfect stage for their habitat.
Regrettably, the escalating popularity of the Denison Barb has led to unintended consequences. Due to excessive fishing driven by their increasing demand, these mesmerising fish now carry the grim status of an endangered species. However, amidst this disheartening reality, a beacon of hope has emerged.
In recent years, a significant majority of Denison Barbs are bred in captivity, a development that provides much-needed respite to the strained wild populations. This allows them a chance to recuperate and thrive in their natural environment. Additionally, commercial breeding has unexpectedly led to a considerable reduction in their cost, a change that seemed improbable given their high demand.
This twist of fate has ushered in broader accessibility, allowing both aquarium enthusiasts and conservationists to experience the joy of nurturing these beautiful creatures. Introducing the Gold Denison Barb into your aquarium not only infuses a dash of colour into your aquatic environment but it also contributes to their continued survival. It offers an opportunity to appreciate the delight they bring while actively partaking in their conservation.
Breeding
Unfortunately, there's a significant lack of trustworthy information and guidance concerning the breeding of the Gold Denison Barb in home aquariums. While there have been occasional instances of unintentional breeding reported by hobbyists across various platforms, a detailed and reliable procedure to recreate this process without the use of hormone treatments is yet to be documented.
Commercial fish farms currently rely on a technique that involves inducing Denison Barbs to spawn using an ovaprim hormone treatment. The eggs procured through this method are then used to propagate the species for the aquarium trade. However, this method isn't suitable for hobbyists seeking to breed these fish in their personal aquariums.
The Denison Barb's increasing popularity within the aquarium hobby over recent decades has sadly resulted in the overexploitation of their wild populations. This has led to the species being listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List. In their natural environment, the spawning season for the Denison Barb is believed to occur between November and March.
Diet & Feeding
In their natural habitats, Gold Denison Barbs predominantly subsist on a diet comprised of insects and crustaceans, extending their consumption to plant matter by grazing on algae and other vegetation. However, the Gold Denison Barb, a selectively bred colour morph, is not found in the wild. In a home aquarium setting, these Gold Denison Barbs exhibit an impressively broad and indiscriminate appetite.
These Barbs readily accept a diverse range of food sources, from dry options such as flakes and granules to live and frozen varieties, including bloodworms and daphnia. Vegetables, like blanched broccoli and spinach, are also readily accepted, providing a semblance to their natural dietary habits.
It's important to highlight the zealous feeding behaviour typical of Gold Denison Barbs. Their consumption habits can be categorised as energetically aggressive, with the Barbs rapidly devouring all accessible food. This swift eating pattern might present a problem for slower or bottom-dwelling species, potentially denying them their fair share of sustenance.
To mitigate this, it is recommended to introduce an additional feeding session later in the evening, just before the aquarium lights are turned off. This would allow bottom-dwelling species, such as Corydoras catfish or various Plecos species, sufficient opportunity to locate and consume their portion of food. In summary, providing Gold Denison Barbs with a balanced and varied diet is crucial to their overall health and well-being within a home aquarium.
Other Barbs
42 More Barbs Profiles
View All