More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 240 litres / 63.40 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 12.5cm / 4.92inches |
| Temperature | 15°C / 59.00°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Hardness | 5.04dgH / 90ppm - 20.00dgH / 357ppm |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
General Description
Initially believed to be endemic to the Chalakudy River system in Kerala, southern India, the Sahyadria Chalakkudiensis, also known as Puntius chalakkudiensis, is a stream and river-dwelling fish species typically found in rocky pools with dense riparian vegetation in river basins. This species was first introduced to the aquarium trade in 1996, with origins from the Chalakudy River basin in Kerala. The genus Sahyadria, including S. chalakkudiensis and S. denisonii, was established in 2013 to accommodate this species and its congener. It exhibits distinct color patterns, with adult sizes ranging from 85-190 mm SL.
Aquarium Setup
To ensure optimal conditions for the Sahyadria Chalakkudiensis in an aquarium, it is best to mimic a flowing stream or river environment with a substrate of water-worn rocks, sand, fine gravel, and driftwood. Given its intolerance to organic pollutants, maintaining spotless water and high levels of dissolved oxygen are crucial for its well-being. Water parameters within the range of 6.5-7.5 pH, 90-357 ppm hardness, and a temperature of 15-25°C are recommended. Regular 30-50% weekly water changes are advised to sustain a healthy environment for these fish. For further details on tank setup, refer to the provided table.
Behaviour
The Sahyadria Chalakkudiensis can display belligerent behavior, making it unsuitable for a general community aquarium. While naturally gregarious, it tends to shoal rather than school and establishes a clear pecking order within groups of five or more individuals. Maintaining fewer specimens may lead to increased antagonism towards subordinate fish.
Feeding and Diet
In the wild, these fish consume a variety of worms, insects, crustaceans, and plant material. When kept in aquariums, they readily accept a balanced diet comprising small live and frozen foods such as bloodworms, Daphnia, and Artemia, alongside high-quality dried products. Sinking foods are preferred, and enhancing their diet with carotenoid-rich foods like astaxanthin can intensify their red pigmentation.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
The reproductive behavior of Sahyadria Chalakkudiensis remains unrecorded, but it is presumed to be a seasonal spawner similar to its congener S. denisonii. Adult females typically grow slightly larger, have a heavier body, and are less colorful compared to males.
Habitat and Distribution
Although initially identified as native only to the Chalakudy River system, these fish have also been discovered in the Periyar, Pamba, and Achankovil rivers in southern India. They thrive in middle river basins with rocky pools, dense vegetation, and sandy or gravelly substrates. The species' name reflects its regional origins, with "Sahyadria" derived from a local term for the Western Ghats mountain ranges, and "chalakkudiensis" referencing the Chalakudy River in Kerala.
Note: To view detailed information on tank setup parameters, such as tank size and water conditions, refer to the accompanying table.