Dawkinsia apsara – Apsara Barb

Dawkinsia apsara – Apsara Barb

Dawkinsia apsara was first described by Katwate, Marcus Knight, Anoop, Raghavan and Dahanukar in 2020. Their common name is Apsara Barb.

Dawkinsia apsara belongs to the family Cyprinidae, known as the carps. This family includes a wide range of freshwater fish, including many popular aquarium fish.

The genus name Dawkinsia is named after British ethologist and evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins in recognition of his contribution to public understanding of science, especially evolutionary science. The species name apsara is derived from the Sanskrit word “अप्सराः” (pronounced “ap-sar/ā”), which refers to the most beautiful celestial nymphs in Hindu mythology. This name reflects the striking and sensational colors of the species.

Description

Dawkinsia apsara has a slender and streamlined body typical of many species in the family Cyprinidae. The fish has a length that can reach about 12 centimeters (total length). The head is relatively small and the mouth is pointed downward, which is typical of fish that feed on small organisms in the water.

Color and Patterns

The color of the head and flank is predominantly deep olive green to brown, with a darker hue on the back. Adult males exhibit a distinctive deep red coloration on the snout and a deep blue sheen on the gill lids and sides of the body. A distinctive pattern is the deep scarlet red dotted line running along the lateral line of scales. The fins are generally translucent, with the dorsal fin often a darker shade, such as dark red.

The colors become at their best in the wild in winter. The air temperature in summer rises above 40 degrees Celsius. In winter it is a bit cooler around 26 degrees.

Differences between Males and Females

There are some physical differences between male and female Dawkinsia apsara. Males often have a more pronounced color pattern, especially during the breeding season, when they are brighter and more vibrant in color. Females tend to be less brightly colored and have a more muted appearance. Behaviorally, males tend to be more active and can be territorial during mating season, while females are more inclined to retreat to quieter waters.

Juveniles versus Adult Specimens

Juvenile specimens of Dawkinsia apsara tend to be less colorful and have a more uniform coloration. As they mature, they develop the distinctive colors and patterns that make this species so attractive to aquariums. Adult fish are also larger and have a more pronounced body shape.

Behavior and Temperament

Dawkinsia apsara is generally a peaceful and social fish. They are best kept in groups of six or more, as they naturally live in schools. This group behavior helps them feel safer and promotes their well-being. They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their surroundings, making them a lively addition to any aquarium.

This species is not shy and will often find themselves in the center of the aquarium, where they can swim freely. They are not bottom dwellers, preferring to swim in the open water layers. Their active behavior and social nature make them a pleasure to watch.

Life expectancy

In the wild, the life expectancy of Dawkinsia apsara can vary, but they can typically live up to 3 to 5 years. In a well-maintained aquarium, with proper care and conditions, they can live even older, up to 6 years or more. It is important to provide a suitable environment, with good water quality and a balanced diet, to maximize their lifespan.

Differences between Dawkinsia apsara and Similar Species

Dawkinsia apsara is a unique species within the genus Dawkinsia, known for its colorful and attractive fish. There are several other species within this genus, and it can sometimes be difficult to tell them apart. Discussed below are the main differences between Dawkinsia apsara and some similar species, as well as tips for telling them apart.

Characteristics of Dawkinsia apsara

Dawkinsia apsara can be characterized by the following features:

• Body color: The adult male fish have a deep scarlet red coloration on the snout and a distinctive deep blue sheen on the gill lids and sides of the body.
• Patterns: There is a distinctive deep scarlet red dotted line running along the row of scales from the lateral line.
• Fins: The fins are generally translucent or hyaline, with the dorsal fin often a darker shade, such as dark red.
• Mouth: The mouth is inferior, meaning that it is pointed downward, and the angle of the mouth does not extend to the vertical line through the posterior nostrils.

Comparable Species

1. Dawkinsia assimilis

• Color: Males have a less pronounced coloration than D. apsara and often exhibit a more brownish hue.
• Patterns: D. assimilis does not have a distinctive scarlet red dot line like D. apsara. Instead, it has a more uniform color.
• Fins: The dorsal fin of D. assimilis has filaments that protrude further than those of D. apsara.
• Mouth: The angle of the mouth of D. assimilis extends to the vertical line through the posterior nostrils, unlike D. apsara.

2. Dawkinsia austellus

• Color: D. austellus has a less pronounced color pattern and lacks the brightly colored features of D. apsara.
• Patterns: The spot on the caudal peduncle is different in shape and size compared to that of D. apsara.
• Fins: The pectoral fins of D. austellus are longer and extend to the level of the pelvic fins, while those of D. apsara are shorter.

3. Dawkinsia filamentosa

• Color: D. filamentosa has a more muted color and lacks the vibrant colors of D. apsara.
• Patterns: This species does not have a distinct scarlet red dot line and exhibits a different scale structure.
• Mouth: The mouth of D. filamentosa is terminal or subterminal, in contrast to the inferior mouth of D. apsara.

How to Keep the Species Apart

To distinguish Dawkinsia apsara from other species within the genus, here are some practical tips:

• Color and Patterns: Note the color intensity and the presence of the scarlet dot line. Males of D. apsara are often more vividly colored than their conspecifics.
• Fins: Observe the fin shape and length. The dorsal fin of D. apsara has no filaments that protrude further, while other species may have them.
• Mouth Structure: Check the mouth position. The inferior mouth of D. apsara is an important feature that helps in identification.

By keeping these characteristics in mind, aquarium keepers and enthusiasts of these fish can effectively tell the different species within the genus Dawkinsia apart.

Biotope

The Apsara Barb, is native to India, specifically in the states of Karnataka and Kerala. These fish are found in the upper catchments of the Sowparnika River and the Sita River.

This species is a river dweller and lives in flowing waters. They are found in streams and large, deep pools within the main river course. The streams in which they live are usually slow, providing a safe environment for them to swim and hide.

Natural Habitat

The natural habitat of Dawkinsia apsara is characterized by a bottom consisting of sand, bedrock (rocky substrate), large boulders and gravel. This type of substrate provides a suitable environment for their natural behavior and feeding.

As for underwater vegetation, these fish live in areas with moderate to low vegetation. There are often no dense underwater plants, but they can be found near some robust plants. The edges of the water are usually covered with trees and other vegetation, providing shade and shelter.

Natural enemies

In their natural habitat, Dawkinsia apsara have several natural predators, including larger fish and other predators that live in the same waters. However, these fish are also hunters themselves and feed on small invertebrates and plant material, which helps them survive in their habitat.

Climate

Dawkinsia apsara live in a tropical climate, where temperatures are usually warm and rainfall is adequate. This climate can bring seasonal flooding, especially during the monsoon season, which affects their habitat and food availability. During dry periods, water levels may drop, forcing fish to adapt to changing conditions in their environment.

Diet

Food in the Wild

In their natural habitat, Dawkinsia apsara are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal foods. In the wild, they feed mainly on small invertebrates such as insect larvae, small crustaceans and plankton. They also consume fine plant material, such as algae and other aquatic plants. This varied diet helps them get the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.

Food in the Aquarium

In an aquarium, it is important to provide a balanced diet that mimics the natural feeding habits of Dawkinsia apsara. They can be fed a variety of foods, including:

• Dry food: This can consist of high-quality flakes or pellets designed specifically for tropical fish. Make sure the food is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.
• Frozen foods: Foods such as frozen artemia, daphnia and mosquito larvae are excellent options. These foods are high in protein and stimulate fish’s natural hunting instincts.
• Fresh food: You can also offer small pieces of vegetables such as zucchini or spinach. Make sure these are well washed and cut into small pieces so the fish can eat them easily.

It is important not to overfeed the fish. A good guideline is to give them small amounts of food twice a day, which should be eaten within a few minutes. This helps maintain water quality in the aquarium and prevents unused food from being left on the bottom, which can lead to pollution.

By offering a varied diet, you will ensure that Dawkinsia apsara remain healthy and active, contributing to their overall well-being in the aquarium.

The Aquarium

For keeping Dawkinsia apsara, an aquarium at least 120 centimeters in length is recommended, especially if you want to keep a group of six or more fish. This provides enough space for the fish to swim and get comfortable. If you want to keep a larger group, it is recommended to use an aquarium of 150 centimeters or more to provide enough space and territory.

The Aquarium

Aquarium setup is important for the well-being of Dawkinsia apsara. Here are some setup guidelines:

• Plants: It is important to provide the aquarium with robust plants such as Lagenandra or Anubias, as these species are more resistant to nibbling by the fish. Provide a mix of open swimming areas and areas of vegetation so the fish can hide and exhibit their natural behavior.
• Rocks and Wood: Add some rocks and driftwood to create hiding places and mimic the natural environment. This also helps create territories within the aquarium.
• Substrate: Use a fine gravel or sand as a substrate. This type of substrate is ideal because it does not injure the fish and it is easy to maintain water quality.

Water parameters

The best water conditions for Dawkinsia apsara in the aquarium are as follows:

• Temperature: 19-26 °C
• pH value: 6.0 – 6.5
• Hardness: Soft to medium (up to approximately 10 dGH)

It is important to regularly check the water quality and make sure the values are within these guidelines to ensure the health of the fish.

Compatibility with Other Residents

Dawkinsia apsara is generally a peaceful species and can be kept well with other similar fish. Suitable tank mates include:

• Neocaridina shrimp: These small shrimp are a good addition and help keep the aquarium clean.
• Small Corydoras: These bottom dwellers are peaceful and can coexist well with Dawkinsia apsara.
• Other small, peaceful barbs: Such as the Sherry Barb or Tiger Barb.

Species less suitable for keeping with Dawkinsia apsara are larger or aggressive fish, such as Cichlids or large barbels that can be territorial. It is important to always consider fish compatibility to create a harmonious aquarium environment.

Breeding aquarium and conditioning

Dawkinsia apsara can be successfully bred in a dedicated breeding aquarium, although there are also reports of successful breeding in an ordinary aquarium. For best results, however, it is recommended that a dedicated breeding aquarium be used.

The Breeding Aquarium

A breeding aquarium of at least 100 liters is ideal for breeding Dawkinsia apsara. This provides enough space for the fish to move around and exhibit their natural behavior.

Water quality

Water quality is important for breeding this species. The recommended water parameters are:

• Temperature: 24-26 °C
• pH value: 6.0 – 6.5
• Hardness: Soft to medium (up to approximately 10 dGH)

It is important to regularly check the water quality and make sure it stays within the recommended values.

Lighting en Filter

Lighting in the breeding aquarium should be bright but not too bright, to simulate a natural environment. A light cycle of about 12 hours per day is ideal. For filtration, an external filter is recommended, which provides good water circulation and filtration, which is essential for fish health and egg development.

Diet and Conditioning

Before breeding, it is important to prepare the fish properly. They can be conditioned with a diet rich in protein, such as:

• Frozen food: such as artemia and daphnia.
• High quality flakes or pellets: specially designed for tropical fish.
• Fresh foods: such as small pieces of vegetables or other plant based foods.

Providing fish with a varied and nutritious diet encourages them to prepare for reproduction.

Breeding behavior

It is advisable to temporarily separate the male and female fish and bring them back together to encourage breeding. This can help the fish get used to being away from each other and may promote their breeding behavior when they are placed together again.

Ratio between the Sexes

For a breeding group, a ratio of 1 male to 2-3 females is ideal. This ensures that the males are not too aggressive toward the females and that there are plenty of opportunities for the females to mate.

The Spawn

During the spawn, Dawkinsia apsara exhibit an intensification of their colors. Male fish become particularly vivid, with a deeper red and blue hue on their bodies and fins. The snout of males can take on a bright deep scarlet red color, which is a sign of their willingness to mate. This color change is a visual signal to females and helps to attract their attention.

Courting Ritual

Courtship in Dawkinsia apsara is a dynamic and active process. Males will often swim around females, showing off their colors and spreading their fins to impress. This behavior may involve rapid swimming movements and circular dances, with the males trying to seduce the females. The ritual can last for some time, with the males showing their best behavior to convince the females to mate.

Eggs and Spawn location

Dawkinsia apsara are egg scatterers, meaning they lay their eggs freely in the water. Laying usually takes place in the early morning, when the fish are most active. Females lay their eggs near plants or on a clean surface, such as gravel or sand. This provides some protection for the eggs from predation.

Number and Characteristics of Eggs

When depositing, females can lay between 100 and 200 eggs, depending on their size and health. The eggs are small, about 1 millimeter in diameter, and are a bright or pale yellow color. These eggs are sticky, allowing them to adhere to the substrate or leaves of plants, which helps protect them from currents and predators.

After deposition, males in the wild often stay near the eggs to protect them, although they do not exhibit true brood care like some other species. This makes depositing Dawkinsia apsara a fascinating process that highlights the vibrant colors and social behavior of these fish.

When breeding Dawkinsia apsara in the aquarium, it is advisable to remove the parents after egg deposition. Although the male fish remain near the eggs to protect them, they do not provide active parental care. It is possible that the parents may regard the young fish as food, especially if they are hungry. By removing the parents, you increase the chances that the young fish will grow up safely and not be eaten.

It is important to place the young fish in a separate tank where they can be fed and protected until they are large enough to survive on their own. This also helps minimize stress for the young fish and provides a better chance of survival.

Raising the Young Fish

The eggs of Dawkinsia apsara usually hatch after a period of 24 to 48 hours, depending on water temperature and water quality. This rapid hatching is a sign of a healthy breeding environment.

Free Swimming

After hatching, the young fish initially remain at the bottom of the aquarium and are not yet able to swim freely. They usually begin to swim freely after about 3 to 5 days, when they have fully developed their swim bladders and are able to move independently.

Parental Care

Dawkinsia apsara shows no significant parental care after hatching. Although the male fish remain near the eggs to protect them from predators, there is no active care for the young after they hatch. The young fish are on their own and must find their own food.

First Feeding of the Young Fish

The first feeding for young Dawkinsia apsara consists of very fine food, such as infusoria or finely ground flakes. It is important to provide food that is small enough for the young fish to eat. They can also be fed live food such as newly hatched artemia, which is an excellent source of protein for their growth.

Young fish should be fed several times a day, ideally 3 to 4 times a day, with small amounts of food eaten within minutes. This helps to promote their growth and ensure they get enough nutrients.

Conclusion

Dawkinsia apsara is a beautiful and active fish species that is ideal for both novice and experienced aquarists. They are relatively easy to care for, provided the proper water parameters and a well-designed aquarium are provided. It is recommended to keep these fish in groups of six or more, which promotes their social behavior and enhances their well-being. Their vibrant colors and interesting breeding behavior make them an attractive choice for tropical fish enthusiasts.

While keeping Dawkinsia apsara, the behavior of the fish can be particularly fascinating, especially during settling and courting. Although they do not provide parental care, they are peaceful and can live well with other small, non-aggressive species. Overall, the experience of keeping this species has been positive, and with proper care they can be a lively addition to any aquarium.

Video

Author

Copyright images

Klaus Rudloff – Biolib.cz
Beta Mahatvaraj

Bibliografie

Katwate, U., Knight, J. D. M., Anoop, V. K., Raghavan, R., & Dahanukar, N. (2020). Three new species of filament barbs of the genus Dawkinsia (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) from the Western Ghats of India. Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung.