Filament Barb

🔥 Filament Barb (Dawkinsia filamentosa)
Add graceful movement and subtle metallic shimmer to your aquarium with the elegant Filament Barb. Also known as the Blackspot Barb, this striking species is recognised for its silvery-gold body, bold dark shoulder spot, and in mature males, beautifully extended filament-like dorsal fin rays that give the fish its name.

A peaceful yet active schooling fish, Filament Barbs are a fantastic choice for larger community aquariums in the UK, especially those designed with natural planting and open swimming space.

🌿 Why Choose Filament Barb?
✨ Shimmering silver-gold body with metallic sheen
⚫ Distinct black shoulder spot for bold contrast
🎣 Males develop elegant filament-like fin extensions
🐠 Peaceful but lively schooling behaviour
🌱 Ideal for large planted or natural aquariums

When kept in groups, they form a coordinated shoal that moves gracefully through the tank, adding both motion and refinement.

📏 Care Requirements
🧬 Scientific Name: Dawkinsia filamentosa
📛 Common Name: Filament Barb / Blackspot Barb
🏠 Tank Size: 200L+ recommended
🌡️ Temperature: 22–26°C
⚗️ pH Range: 6.5–7.8
🧘 Temperament: Peaceful (active swimmer)
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – flakes, pellets, frozen & live foods, vegetable matter
👥 Group Size: 6–10+ recommended

Filament Barbs thrive in spacious, well-filtered aquariums with plenty of swimming room. A mix of open water and planted areas helps them display natural schooling behaviour.

🐠 Compatibility
Excellent for larger peaceful community tanks with rainbowfish, larger tetras, loaches, gouramis, plecos, and other non-aggressive species. Avoid slow or delicate fish due to their active nature.

Important Notes
Filament Barbs are highly active schooling fish and must be kept in proper groups to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour. They are best suited to mature, stable aquariums with strong filtration and regular maintenance.

The Filament Barb is a superb choice for UK fishkeepers looking for an elegant, energetic schooling fish that adds shimmer, movement, and natural beauty to larger aquariums.