Kamalika's Barb (Puntius kamalika)

Family: Cyprinidae

Kamalika's Barb — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 5.5–8 cm; keep at 20–24 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 20–24 °C
pH: 6–6.5
GH hardness: 8–15 dGH
Adult length: 5.5–8 cm
Minimum tank: 77 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Puntius kamalika is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 5.5–8 cm of adult fish at 20–24 °C. Related profiles: Puntius bimaculatus, Puntius cauveriensis, Puntius chola.

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 Kamalika's Barb easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Kamalika's Barb need?

Hold 20–24 °C and keep it stable — 20.0–24.0 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Kamalika's Barb get, and what tank size?

Full size is 5.5–8 cm. Minimum tank: 77 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.

What does Kamalika's Barb eat?

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

Can Kamalika's Barb 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 Kamalika's Barb come from?

Found in clear streams and rivers over gravel; expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Kamalika's Barb jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Kamalika's Barb breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.