Roseline Shark

General Information

• Scientific Name: Puntius denisonii
• Common Names: Roseline Shark, Redline Torpedo Barb, Denison Barb
• Family: Cyprinidae
• Origin: Found in fast-flowing rivers and streams of the Western Ghats in Kerala and Karnataka, India.
• Conservation Status: Endangered (due to habitat destruction and overfishing in the wild).
• Size: 3'

Physical Description

• Size: Typically grows up to 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in aquariums but can reach 6–7 inches (15–18 cm) in the wild.
• Coloration:
  • Silver body with a striking red stripe running from the snout through the eyes to the middle of the body.
  • A black stripe runs parallel to the red stripe below it.
  • Yellow and black markings on the tail fin with touches of green or blue near the caudal peduncle.
• Shape: Torpedo-like streamlined body, ideal for swimming in fast currents.

Behavior and Temperament

• Nature: Peaceful and social.
• Schooling Fish: Should be kept in groups of 5 or more.
• Tank Level: Active swimmers that occupy the middle and bottom levels of the tank.
• Compatibility: Compatible with other peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and rainbowfish. Avoid housing with aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum of 55 gallons for a small group (larger tanks are preferred).
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
  • pH: 6.5–7.5
  • Hardness: 5–25 dGH
• Filtration: High-flow filter to replicate their natural riverine habitat.
• Substrate: Sand or gravel with smooth rocks.
• Decoration: Provide plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks for hiding but leave open swimming areas.
• Lighting: Moderate to bright.

Diet

• Omnivorous:
  • Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia.
  • Dry Foods: High-quality pellets and flakes.
  • Vegetation: Blanched spinach, lettuce, or algae wafers.
• Feed a varied diet to maintain vibrant colors and health.

Breeding

• Difficulty: Rarely bred in captivity due to specific environmental requirements.
• Natural Reproduction: Occurs in rivers during monsoon season.
• Behavior: Females are typically plumper than males, especially during breeding conditions.
• In aquariums, breeding attempts require precise water parameters and large tanks.

Special Considerations

• Conservation Awareness: Ensure your Roseline Sharks are captive-bred to reduce pressure on wild populations.
• Health Issues: Prone to stress in poor water conditions, leading to diseases like ich. Keep water parameters stable.
• Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care.