Mahseer Barb (Tor sp.)

Mahseer, genus Tor, are revered as sportfish and in some regions as sacred fish, protected in temple-adjacent waters across parts of India where religious tradition and conservation policy happen to line up. They're also genuinely enormous compared to every other barb on this list, wild adults pushing well past a foot and often referred to as the tiger of the river by anglers who've fought one on a line. Buy this one with a serious long-term tank plan in mind, not a starter setup.

Care level: Moderate · Temperament: Peaceful, shoaling · Max size: ~18"+ · Min tank: 125+ gal (adult) · Diet: Omnivore, pellets + veggies