Systomus asoka, also known as the Asoka Barb, is a vibrant and active species native to Sri Lanka, known for its schooling behavior and suitability for larger community aquariums.
Overview
Systomus asoka, commonly known as the Asoka Barb, is a vibrant freshwater species from the family Cyprinidae. Native to the fast-flowing rivers and streams of Sri Lanka, this species is well-known for its bright coloration and lively nature. Asoka Barbs are a shoaling species that prefer to be kept in groups, making them an excellent choice for larger community tanks with plenty of swimming space. Due to their active nature, they require a tank that mimics their natural habitat with strong water flow and an open swimming area.
Tank Requirements
The Asoka Barb thrives in a spacious tank with a minimum capacity of 200 liters (around 53 gallons). The tank should have a strong water flow, similar to the streams in which they are found in the wild. The water temperature should be maintained between 22-26°C (72-79°F) with a pH level of 6.0-7.5 and a general hardness (GH) of 5-15. Use a powerful filter and ensure there is plenty of open swimming space, along with some plants and rocks for cover. They prefer a well-oxygenated environment, so adding an air stone or ensuring sufficient surface agitation is recommended.
Feeding and Diet
Asoka Barbs are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. In the wild, they feed on small insects, algae, and plant matter. In captivity, they should be fed a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet foods, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. It's important to provide them with occasional plant-based foods to mimic their natural diet. Regular feedings, two to three times a day, will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for Systomus asoka requires regular maintenance to keep the tank environment clean and stable. Regular water changes of around 30% every week are recommended to ensure high water quality. Since they are active swimmers, they benefit from a large tank with a good filtration system that can handle their bioload. Keeping the water well-oxygenated is crucial, and adding plants will help maintain good water quality and provide cover.
Compatibility
Asoka Barbs are generally peaceful and can be housed in a community tank with other medium to large-sized, non-aggressive species. Ideal tank mates include other barbs, loaches, and peaceful cichlids. It's important to keep them in a group of at least five individuals to prevent stress and to promote natural shoaling behavior. Avoid housing them with slow-moving or very small fish, as their active nature may intimidate more timid species.
Breeding
Breeding Systomus asoka in captivity can be challenging, but it is possible under the right conditions. Asoka Barbs are egg scatterers, and they will lay their eggs in fine-leaved plants or over rocks. To encourage breeding, set up a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of plants. Condition the breeding pair with a high-protein diet of live and frozen foods. Once eggs are laid, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24-36 hours, and the fry should be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to consume finely crushed flake food or micro-pellets.