Family: Cyprinidae
Hampala Barb — a Cyprinidae from Singapore. Reaches 52.5–77 cm; keep at 22–25 °C.
Hampala macrolepidota, a member of the family Cyprinidae, comes from Singapore, where it inhabits clear streams and rivers over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins and omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter, it grows to 52.5–77 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 22–25 °C range. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.
Hold 22–25 °C and keep it stable — 22–25 °C recorded range. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.
Expect 52.5–77 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Native to Singapore, where it lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.
Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.
In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.