[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cyprinids – Indian Glass Barb (Chela laubuca)

There are several species of Chela occasionally available: C. laubuca (the most common), C. cachuis (Neon Hatchet), C. dadyburjori (Burjor’s Brilliance or Orange Chela), C fasciata (Striped Chela), and—perhaps the most colorful of all —C. auropurpurens (Orange False Barilius). All are small with the exception of the last species, which is reported to attain 4in (10cm) in length. Despite two of its common names, C. laubuca is neither a barb nor a hatchetfish. Chelas can prove delicate during the initial phases of acclimatization.

Other common names

• Indian Glass Hatchet, Blue Laubuca

Subfamily

• Rasborinae (Danioninae)

Distribution

• Southeast Asia (widely distributed).

Size

• Up to 2 1/2in (6cm).

Behavior

• A peaceful shoaler rgar has a strong preference for the surface layers of the aquarium.

Diet

• Wide range of (predominantly) floating foods accepted; will not feed off the bottom.

Aquarium

• Open swimming areas surrounded by vegetation. Frequent partial water changes recommended, as well as soft, slightly acid water. Temperature range: 75-79 F (24-26 C).

Breeding

• Eggs laid among fine-leaved vegetation. Hatching takes about 1 day.