The Swamp Barb is a small freshwater fish found in Sri Lanka and other parts of South Asia. In Sri Lanka, it inhabits slow-moving waters such as marshes, ponds, swamps, canals, and calm areas of rivers where vegetation is abundant. It is a hardy species that can tolerate a variety of freshwater conditions and often shelters among aquatic plants and submerged vegetation. This peaceful schooling fish feeds on algae, small insects, plant matter, and tiny aquatic organisms. The Swamp Barb is an important native species in Sri Lanka’s freshwater habitats and contributes to the biodiversity of wetlands and lowland aquatic ecosystems.