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About the Mascara Barb

The Mascara Barb is a striking freshwater barb known for its shimmering silver-gold body, bold black facial marking, and flashes of red and orange in the fins, particularly in mature males. Native to the fast-flowing rivers and streams of southern India, this active and peaceful schooling species is an excellent addition to larger planted and community aquariums.

Mascara Barbs are energetic swimmers that thrive in well-oxygenated aquariums with plenty of open swimming space, driftwood, rocks, and hardy aquatic plants. They are naturally social fish and should always be kept in schools of at least six, with larger groups displaying more confident behaviour and vibrant colouration.

Their peaceful temperament makes them suitable for community aquariums with rainbowfish, larger tetras, danios, peaceful loaches, Corydoras, and other active freshwater species. A varied diet of quality flakes, sinking pellets, frozen foods, and live foods will keep them healthy while enhancing their natural colours.

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Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Dawkinsia assimilis

Common Name

Mascara Barb

Origin

Southern India

Adult Size

10–12 cm

Temperament

Peaceful and active

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

150 Litres

Temperature

22–27°C

pH

6.5–7.8

Water Hardness

5–15 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner to Intermediate

Lifespan

5–7 Years

Suitable For

Large community aquariums and planted tanks

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Mascara Barbs aggressive?

No. They are generally peaceful, but like most barbs they are very active. Keeping them in groups of six or more helps minimise any chasing or fin-nipping behaviour.

How many Mascara Barbs should I keep?

A minimum of six is recommended, although schools of eight or more encourage natural behaviour and bring out the best colours.

What do Mascara Barbs eat?

They are omnivores and readily accept quality flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and live foods.

Can Mascara Barbs live with shrimp?

Larger shrimp may coexist with adult Mascara Barbs, but smaller shrimp and shrimplets are likely to be eaten.

Do Mascara Barbs need current?

Yes. They naturally inhabit flowing rivers and appreciate moderate water movement and high oxygen levels.

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Common Mistakes

Keeping too few fish

Mascara Barbs are schooling fish and become stressed when kept in small numbers.

Housing them in small aquariums

Their active nature and adult size require plenty of swimming space.

Mixing with slow-moving fish

Avoid delicate long-finned species that may become stressed by their energetic behaviour.

Poor water quality

Regular maintenance and stable water parameters are essential for healthy, colourful fish.

Feeding a poor diet

A varied diet rich in quality foods helps maintain their vibrant colours and overall health.