Asoka Barb (Systomus asoka)

Family: Cyprinidae

Asoka Barb — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 12.8–18.7 cm; keep at 25–30 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
25–30 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
4.4–14.6 dGH
Adult length
12.8–18.7 cm
Minimum tank
420 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Systomus asoka is a Cyprinidae. In the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 12.8–18.7 cm of adult fish at 25–30 °C. Related profiles: Systomus barbatus, Systomus clavatus, Systomus gracilus.

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 Asoka Barb easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Asoka Barb need?

Aim for 25–30 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 25–30 °C recorded range.

How big does Asoka Barb get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 12.8–18.7 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 420 litres.

What does Asoka 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 Asoka Barb live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Asoka Barb come from?

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

Does Asoka Barb jump?

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

How does Asoka Barb breed?

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