Deccan labeo (Labeo kawrus)

Family: Cyprinidae

Deccan labeo — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 45–66 cm; keep at 21–27 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
21–27 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
45–66 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Labeo kawrus is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 45–66 cm of adult fish at 21–27 °C. Related profiles: Labeo bata, Labeo boggut, Labeo calbasu.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Deccan labeo easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Deccan labeo need?

Hold 21–27 °C and keep it stable — 21.0–27.0 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Deccan labeo get, and what tank size?

Expect 45–66 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Deccan labeo eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Deccan labeo live with other fish?

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.

Where does Deccan labeo come from?

Its habitat is clear streams and rivers over gravel — moderate, well-oxygenated current, appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Deccan labeo jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Deccan labeo breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.