More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 240 litres / 63.40 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.0cm / 3.94inches |
| Temperature | 19°C / 66.20°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
General Description
Dawkinsia Arulius, formerly known as Puntius Arulius, is classified under the order Cypriniformes and belongs to the family Cyprinidae. This species is characterized by its vibrant coloration, with adult males displaying a more intense color pattern than females. Dawkinsia Arulius is a schooling fish that thrives in clean, well-oxygenated streams and rivers with substrates of gravel, pebbles, rocks, and boulders.
Aquarium Setup
Setting up an aquarium for Dawkinsia Arulius involves replicating a flowing stream or river environment. The tank should be aquascaped with a substrate of water-worn rocks, sand, fine gravel, and driftwood. Hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias species can be added. This species requires pristine water conditions, high dissolved oxygen levels, and moderate water movement. Weekly water changes of 30-50% tank volume are recommended.
Behaviour
Dawkinsia Arulius is an ideal addition to a peaceful community tank with other riverine species. It is a schooling fish by nature, and maintaining a group of 8-10 individuals is recommended. In a community setting, males focus on establishing hierarchical positions within the group, which helps in minimizing aggressive behavior.
Feeding and Diet
As a foraging omnivore, Dawkinsia Arulius feeds on a variety of food including worms, insects, crustaceans, and plant material in the wild. In the aquarium, they can be fed a balanced diet of live and frozen foods such as bloodworms, Daphnia, and Artemia, supplemented with high-quality dried flakes and granules to ensure optimal health and coloration.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
During spawning, Dawkinsia Arulius behaves as an egg-scattering free spawner with no parental care. Male individuals exhibit more vibrant colors and develop noticeable tubercules on their heads during spawning. Female fish tend to grow slightly larger and are less colorful. The breeding process can be stimulated in a separate, dimly lit tank with appropriate substrate and water conditions.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of Dawkinsia Arulius includes the upper Cauvery in Karnataka and the upper Tungabhadra River system in India. This species prefers streams and rivers with flowing water and substrates consisting of rocks and gravel. Although historically found in various locations in South India, recent records suggest localized distributions and possible extirpation due to human activities.
Sources:- Pethiyagoda, R., Meegaskumbura, M., Maduwage, K. (2012). A synopsis of the South Asian fishes referred to Puntius (Pisces: Cyprinidae). Ichthyological Exploration of Freshwaters.- Knight, J.D., Rai, A., D’Souza, R.K.P. (2011). Phylogenetic implications of hybridization within the genus Garra (Cyprinidae) derived from mitochondrial and nuclear DNA data. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution.