Mascara Barb (Dawkinsia assimilis) is a large and striking barb from the Western Ghats of India. The body displays a warm silver-orange tone with a distinctive bold dark marking behind the eye — the 'mascara' marking that gives this fish its name. A bold black spot at the base of the dorsal fin and red-orange fin coloration complete a fish of considerable visual presence.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets and Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Vibra Bites. Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp are a good additional treat. Feed 2–3 times daily.
Native to the rivers and streams of the Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, southwestern India — a region of extraordinary freshwater biodiversity. Dawkinsia assimilis is one of several similar-looking Dawkinsia species from this region, distinguished by specific fin ray counts and coloration details. Inhabits moderately flowing clear streams with rocky substrate.
Keep in groups of at least six. Active, robust, and peaceful with other large, non-aggressive species. A spacious aquarium of at least 4 feet allows this active barb to swim freely and display its full coloration. Good filtration and regular water changes important.
Egg-scatterer. The Mascara Barb is an impressive and underappreciated large barb — its bold eye marking, warm body color, and active schooling behavior make it a natural centerpiece in a large planted community aquarium.
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community |
| Typical Adult Size | 4.5 inches (11 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum — needs a tank of at least 4 feet |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 4–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 2–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets; Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Vibra Bites; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Western Ghats, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, southwestern India |
| Notes | Dawkinsia assimilis — distinct from Dawkinsia apsara (Apsara Barb). Bold dark 'mascara' eye marking. Large species — 4-foot tank needed. Western Ghats endemic. |
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