Description
Mascara Barb
The Mascara Barb is a small and peaceful freshwater fish with a striking appearance. Named for the dark markings around its eyes, this attractive barb has a silvery body with subtle colour that becomes more noticeable as it settles into the aquarium. Active without being overly aggressive, Mascara Barbs are a great choice for peaceful community aquariums and look especially impressive when kept in a group.
Features of Mascara Barb
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Distinctive dark markings around the eyes
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Peaceful and active community fish
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Small adult size of around 5–7 cm
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Enjoys being kept in a group
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Adds movement and personality to the aquarium
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Suitable for planted community aquariums
The best aquarium size for Mascara Barb
A minimum aquarium size of 80 litres is recommended for a small group of Mascara Barbs. A longer aquarium is preferred, giving them plenty of room to swim and explore. Keeping them in groups of at least 6 will help them feel comfortable and display more natural behaviour.
Tank Mate Compatibility for Mascara Barb
Mascara Barbs are generally peaceful and can be kept with other similarly sized community fish.
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Harlequin Rasbora
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Neon Tetra
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Cherry Barb
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Honey Gourami
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Corydoras Catfish
Diet for Mascara Barb
Mascara Barbs are easy to feed and will happily accept quality tropical fish flakes or small pellets. Offer a varied diet with occasional frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia. Feed small portions once or twice a day and avoid overfeeding.
Aquarium Setup Mascara Barb
Aquarium Filtration
Use a reliable filter that keeps the water clean while providing a gentle to moderate current. Regular water changes will help maintain good water quality.
Aquarium Plants
Live plants are a great addition and provide shelter while making the aquarium look more natural. Leave some open areas for swimming.
Aquarium Lighting
Moderate lighting is ideal, particularly when the aquarium contains plants and shaded areas.
Aquarium Heating
Maintain a stable temperature of around 23–27°C with a suitable aquarium heater.
Aquarium Substrate
Sand or fine gravel works well. A darker substrate can help the Mascara Barb's markings and natural colours stand out.
Aquarium Decorations
Use driftwood, smooth rocks and plants to create hiding places and cover. Keep plenty of open swimming space and avoid sharp decorations.
