Cyprinidaefreshwater fishintermediate

Mahecola Barb

Puntius mahecola

Origin: India (Western Ghats)

M

Water Parameters

Temperature2025 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH67.5
49
GH (Hardness)312 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)16 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
7 cm
Min Tank
80 L
Lifespan
4-6
Swimming Level
middle
Schooling
Yes (6–12+)
Diet
omnivore
Temperament
peaceful

About

Puntius mahecola is a rarely seen barb from the Western Ghats of India, featuring a slender silver body with faint markings and reddish fin colouration. It inhabits fast-flowing hill streams and appreciates well-oxygenated water with moderate flow in the aquarium. An uncommon species that rewards the dedicated hobbyist.

Care Guide

Keep in groups of at least 6 in a well-oxygenated aquarium of 80 L or more with moderate current. Provide smooth stones and plants to replicate a hill stream biotope. Feed quality flake, micro-pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods. Peaceful and compatible with similar-sized Indian fish.

Buy Mahecola Barb from FinsHQ shops

Shops currently listing this species with stock available

No shops are currently listing Mahecola Barb. List your shop on FinsHQ.
Built for aquarium retailers

Sell Mahecola Barb in your shop?

Join aquarium shops already using FinsHQ. Get a beautiful webshop, mobile app, and inventory management — built for aquatic retailers.

Start your free store