Manipur Barb

Puntius manipurensis is a modestly sized barb from the clear upland streams of Manipur in northeastern India. It is found in cool, well-oxygenated water draining the Manipur hills, where it shares habitat with other rheophilic cyprinids. The body is vivid orange-red with each scale outlined in dark brown, creating a fine tessellated pattern unique among Indian barbs. Males in full colour are among the most striking of the genus.

Due to its origins in cooler hill streams, P. manipurensis does best at lower temperatures than most tropical community fish, making it a natural companion for temperate and subtropical species. It is an active schooler and should be kept in groups of at least eight. Planted aquariums with moderate current best replicate its natural environment.

Like most Puntius, it is an egg-scatterer with no parental care. Providing a slightly cooler spawning tank and conditioning fish on live food reliably induces breeding. Fry grow quickly and are straightforward to raise.

Water: 18–26 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard; cooler end preferred for long-term health. Tank: 80 L minimum; planted with moderate flow; driftwood and smooth stone biotope ideal. Feeding: Omnivore; pellets, flake, Daphnia, brine shrimp, vegetable matter. Breeding: Egg-scatter over plants; condition with live food; remove adults after spawning. Compatibility: Peaceful; keep with other cool-water South Asian species.