Arulius barb
📖 Overview
Arulius barb (Dawkinsia arulius) is a ray-finned fish of the family Cyprinidae. It inhabits freshwater waters. This species can reach a maximum total length of 12 cm. With a trophic level of 2.7, it is an omnivore, consuming both plant and animal matter. It is assessed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Adults differ from Puntius filamentosus, P. singhala and P. assimilis by possessing prominent black markings on body anterior to anal-fin origin. Distinguished from P. exclamatio by lacking an elongate, tear-shaped black blotch above anal fin. Differs from P. srilankensis by having mouth subterminal and lower lip entire (vs. mouth inferior and lower lip medially absent). Distinguished from P. tambraparniei by lacking branched dorsal-fin rays elongated into filaments in adult males (vs. present) and by having a pair of maxillary barbels
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Arulius barb is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Spawns preferably near the surface.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic; pH range: 6.0 - 6.5; dH range: ? - 10. Tropical; 19°C - 25°C
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Dawkinsia Arulius is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Arulius barb is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Arulius barb has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Arulius barb.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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