Dawkinsia: named for Richard Dawkins, for ‘his contribution to the public understanding of science and, in particular, of evolutionary science’.
filamentosa: from the Latin filamentosa, meaning ‘filamentous’, in reference to the dorsal-fin extensions which develop as the fish mature.
Endemic to but widespread within the Western Ghats mountains region of southern India in the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and possibly restricted to the south of the latter.
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.
