MELON BARB

6Scientific name: Haludaria fasciata

6Pronunciation: Hah-loo-dah-ree-ah punk-tah-tah

6Size: To 7cm, likely larger in a good sized tank

6Origin: Western Ghats, India

6Habitat: Hillstreams and headwaters to rivers and canals,

occasionally lakes and pools

6Tank size: 120x30x30cm

6Water requirements: Soft and slightly acidic to slightly alkaline

water; 6.0-7.5pH, 2-16°H

6Temperature: 22-26°C

6Temperament: Peaceful but confident

feeder that can outcompete tankmates

6Feeding: Unfussy but ensure a little greenfood is added, otherwise offer flakes, pellets, live and frozen Daphnia, Cyclops and bloodworm

6Availability and cost: Quite common but often small and bland in retailer tanks.

Invest and give them a chance to shine.

Prices from £3.95 each