Drape Fin Barb
Drape Fin Barb (Oreichthys crenuchoides) is one of the most unusual and captivating small barbs available. Males develop a dramatically oversized dorsal fin that extends well beyond the body and 'drapes' downward — an extraordinary fin structure unlike any other barb. During display and sparring, males spread this sail-like dorsal to its full extent, creating one of the most spectacular fin displays among small freshwater fish. The silver body has a prominent dark lateral stripe and a bold black spot at the caudal fin base.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets (soak briefly) and Sera Vipan Baby make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed in a calm environment — this species is somewhat shy and benefits from subdued lighting and dense planting. Multiple daily small feedings work better than one large feeding.
Native to clear, slow-flowing streams of northeastern India — the Jorai River and other Brahmaputra tributaries in West Bengal and Assam. This species inhabits shallow, vegetated water with muddy substrate and gentle flow. Subdued lighting from floating plants, gentle filtration, and leaf litter additions replicate its natural environment and produce the most relaxed, boldly displaying fish.
Keep in groups of at least six, preferably eight or more, with more females than males. Males establish a pecking order through dramatic fin-spreading displays rather than damaging fights — a spectacular and harmless social behavior. This species is timid and should be kept only with other small, peaceful fish. Avoid any boisterous or larger species that will intimidate these shy barbs.
Egg-scatterer — spawns among fine-leaved plants or nylon spawning mops. Males keep their draping dorsal fins in constant use during social interactions — a group of males displaying together is one of the most mesmerizing sights available in small freshwater fish. A genuinely rewarding species for the planted tank aquarist who wants something truly unusual.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — timid; small species only |
| Typical Adult Size | 1.75 inches (4.5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum — more females than males |
| Ideal Temp | 73–82°F (23–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed/soaked); Sera Vipan Baby |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Jorai River and Brahmaputra tributaries, West Bengal and Assam, India |
| Notes | Males develop dramatically elongated draping dorsal fin — unique among barbs. Fin-spreading display between males is spectacular and harmless. Timid — subdued lighting and dense planting essential. Keep only with small peaceful species. |
