Mascara Barb - Dawkinsia Assimilis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Meet the fascinating Mascara Barbs (Dawkinsia assimilis), a brilliant species that makes a fantastic addition to any community aquarium. These fish are relatively peaceful and are not known for nipping fins, but be warned, they can be boisterous and active, especially the males, who love chasing each other.
To ensure the best possible environment for your Mascara Barbs, it's best to keep them with equally large and active tankmates, such as Denison Barbs, Rainbowfish, Gouramis, Loaches, and other medium to large-sized Barbs. These fish are schooling species, so it's best to keep them in groups of at least eight or more. The more Barbs in the tank, the more comfortable and natural they will feel, and the more impressive your display will look.
When setting up an aquarium for Mascara Barbs, be sure to include various-sized rocks, pebbles, sand, or fine gravel for substrate, and perhaps some small boulders for added interest. Hardy aquatic plants such as Anubias or Microsorum, along with driftwood, will also provide your fish with plenty of hiding places and a natural feel.
Mascara Barbs have a unique appearance, with a pear-shaped black spot on the caudal peduncle, blue-black lines under their eyes, and a curved reddish-pink line resembling a thin pearl necklace on their silvery bodies. Their fins are mostly translucent, except for their bright red dorsal fins and red and black-tipped caudal fins.
Males have a more striking colour pattern, with vivid red dorsal fins and tubercules on their heads when breeding. In the end, the care and keeping of these stunning Mascara Barbs are relatively simple. Just be sure to keep them in groups, provide them with plenty of space, and feed them a balanced diet of small frozen and live foods, high-quality dried flakes, and granules, and you'll have happy, healthy, and vibrant fish.
Mascara Barb Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
It can be quite challenging to differentiate between male and female Mascara Barbs as both sexes display remarkable red colouration as mature adults. Nevertheless, males possess more striking colour patterns and develop vivid red dorsal fins and detailed dorsal filaments. They also develop tubercles on their heads during breeding. Conversely, females tend to grow larger, heavier, and comparatively duller as they age.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Dawkinsia Assimilis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1849 |
| Other Names | Red Necklace Barb, Assimilis Barb |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Puntius |
| Origins | India |
| Max Size | 12 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| KH | 1 - 10 |
| TDS | 40 - 70 |
| ℉ | 65 - 80 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 18 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Mascara Barbs are indigenous to the lush landscapes of Southwest India, specifically the Chalakudy, Kallada, and Netravati River Basins, in the states of Kerala and Karnataka. The Mascara Barbs are diverse creatures with various habitat preferences depending on the season and location. In the Netravati River, they prefer limited areas with sluggish flowing waters and a muddy substrate.
Conversely, in the Chalakudy River, these Barbs can be found in rocky, clear, fast-flowing, highly oxygenated stretches between waterfalls formed from the river descending from the Western Ghats Mountains. Adding these Barbs to your aquatic collection will undoubtedly enhance the beauty of your aquarium. So why not explore the wonders of Mascara Barbs and bring a little bit of Southwest India into your home today?
Breeding
Mascara Barbs are capable of reproducing on their own in an established aquarium with proper water conditions. However, for those looking to maximize their yield of fry, a separate breeding tank is recommended, equipped with a mesh-covered bottom or filled with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.
The breeding tank's water pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, and temperature should be kept in the upper range. Additionally, water movement and oxygenation can be provided through an air-powered sponge filter or air stone. To encourage spawning, one or two well-conditioned pairs of Mascara Barbs can be introduced into the breeding tank, and spawning will generally occur the following morning.
Alternatively, spawning can occur in a group, although a larger aquarium may be necessary. It's crucial to remove the eggs as soon as they are spotted, as adult fish tend to eat them. The eggs typically hatch within 24 to 48 hours, and the fry becomes free-swimming approximately 24 hours after that. For the first few days, the fry will require microscopic food until they are large enough to accept baby brine shrimp or microworms.
Diet & Feeding
In their natural habitat, Mascara Barbs are known to consume a varied diet of insects, crustaceans, worms, plant matter, and other organic debris. However, when kept in captivity, they are not picky eaters and can be fed with ease. For optimal health and vibrant coloration of your Barbs, it is recommended to provide them with a balanced diet consisting of small live and frozen foods, including daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, in addition to high-quality dried flakes and granules. By offering this nutritious mix, you can ensure the well-being of your fish and promote their overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Videos
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Looking for some awesome tank mate ideas for your Mascara Barb? Look no further! Here are 9 of the most captivating & fascinating options that will liven up your aquarium!
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