Blotched Filamented Barb

Adults of Puntius srilankensis are distinguished from P. filamentosus, P. singhala and P. assimilis by possessing a prominent black markings on body anterior to anal-fin origin. They differ from P. exclamatio by the absence of an elongate, tear-shaped black blotch above and anal fin; from P. arulius and P. tambraparniei by having mouth inferior and lower lip medially absent ( vs. mouth subterminal, lower lip entire) (Ref. 55036).Description: Pectoral fin with one simple and 15 branched rays. Lateral line with 21 or 22 scales on body, with 1-2 scales on caudal-fin base (Ref. 55036).

A mid-water fish found in areas of rapidly flowing water with pebbly substrate (not found in silty substrate). With a clearly defined territory (of several square meters) and without lateral spatial preferences. Individuals of the same size often form loose schools. Presently not available in sufficient numbers to be exported by the aquarium trade.

fisheries: of no interest; aquarium: potential

Dawkinsia srilankensis, the blotched filamented barb, is a species of ray-finned fish in the genus Dawkinsia. This species is endemic to the Kalu River in Sri Lanka and it is in imminent danger of going extinct due to tailings from upstream mines and potentially also capture for the aquarium trade. It was bred recently in the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens.