Dawkinsia is a genus you might not recognize the name of, but you’d probably recognize some of the fish that belong to it.
Commonly known as “filament barbs,” they’re found in the rivers around India and Shri Lanka and, prior to the new discoveries, there were nine recognized species in the genus. The most popular species is Dawkinsia assimilis, also known as the mascara barb.
Not difficult to keep in a well-maintained set-up, though we recommend aquascaping the tank to resemble a flowing stream or river with a substrate of variably-sized, water-worn rocks, sand, fine gravel and perhaps some small boulders.
This can be further furnished with driftwood roots or branches, and while the majority of aquatic plants will fail to thrive in such surroundings hardy types such as Microsorum, Bolbitis or Anubias spp. can be grown attached to the décor.
Since it naturally occurs in relatively pristine habitats it’s intolerant to accumulation of organic pollutants and requires more-or-less spotless water in order to thrive.