Barb Melon Indian

The Melon Barb (Haludaria fasciata), also known as the Indian Striped Barb, is a peaceful and attractive freshwater fish native to India. Found in slow-moving rivers, streams, and lakes, this species is well-suited for community aquariums due to its hardy nature and calm temperament.

Melon Barbs have a golden-orange to reddish body with distinct vertical black bands running along their sides, giving them a striking appearance. Their fins are mostly translucent, sometimes showing a slight red or orange tint. Males tend to be more colorful than females, especially during breeding. They typically grow to around 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length, making them a great choice for mid-sized aquariums.

These fish are social and peaceful, thriving in groups of at least 6 or more. Like most barbs, they do best in a well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended to accommodate a small school. They are active but not overly aggressive, making them compatible with other non-aggressive fish such as tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and other small barbs.

Melon Barbs prefer water temperatures between 72–79°F (22–26°C) with a pH range of 6.0–7.5 and moderate water hardness. They thrive in aquariums with soft substrate, driftwood, and aquatic plants that mimic their natural habitat. Their omnivorous diet includes high-quality flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.

Easy to care for and visually appealing, Melon Barbs are a fantastic choice for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. Their gentle temperament, schooling behavior, and vibrant coloration make them a wonderful addition to a peaceful community tank.