🐟 Roseline Shark Care Guide (Sahyadria denisonii)
🌟 Overview The Roseline Shark (Sahyadria denisonii), also known as the Denison Barb or Red-Line Torpedo Barb, is a stunning freshwater fish prized for its torpedo-shaped body, bold black stripe, and striking red and yellow markings. Native to fast-moving rivers in India, Roseline Sharks are peaceful schooling fish that make excellent additions to large community aquariums.
🔑 Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Sahyadria denisonii
- Common Names: Roseline Shark, Denison Barb, Red-Line Torpedo Barb
- Origin: Southern India
- Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
- Lifespan: 5–8 years
- Temperament: Peaceful, active schooling fish
- Care Level: Moderate
🏠 Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (larger for groups)
- Water Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Hardness: 5–12 dGH
- Aquascape: Open swimming space with plants, rocks, and driftwood
- Filtration: Strong; prefers well-oxygenated water with current
- School Size: Keep in groups of 6 or more
🍽️ Diet
Roseline Sharks are omnivores:
- High-quality flakes, pellets, and wafers
- Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
- Vegetables: blanched spinach, peas, zucchini
- Variety enhances health and coloration
🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates
- Peaceful and active → great with community fish
- Good with rainbowfish, gouramis, larger tetras, danios, barbs, corydoras
- Avoid aggressive cichlids or very small shrimp/inverts
🧠 Behavior & Tips
- Very active swimmers → need long tanks with strong current
- Schooling fish → must be kept in groups to avoid stress
- Lose color when stressed, regain vibrancy with proper care
- Jumpers → keep a tight-fitting lid on the aquarium
❓ FAQ
Q: How big do Roseline Sharks get?
A: Adults reach about 5–6 inches, so a spacious tank is needed.
Q: Are they aggressive?
A: No, they are peaceful schooling fish, but can be nippy if kept in too-small groups.
Q: Do they really need groups?
A: Yes, Roseline Sharks must be kept in groups of 6 or more for natural behavior.
Q: How long do they live?
A: With good care, they live 5–8 years.