Fin's Fish Guide
The African banded barb (Enteromius fasciolatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The African banded barb is a small barb of the family Cyprinidae widely distributed in fresh water in Africa. The species has a streamlined, yellowish body with dark cross-bands and bears short barbels; it grows to only a few centimetres. It prefers well-oxygenated, vegetated waters such as floodplains and permanent lagoons, and is most active in the early morning and late afternoon. The diet consists of small organisms grazed from plant surfaces, including worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter. The species migrates during the rainy season.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African banded barb?
The African banded barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Dark vertical bars; shy, mainly active at dusk.
Where does the African banded barb live?
The African banded barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Widespread in fresh water in West, Central and southern Africa.
How big does the African banded barb get?
The African banded barb grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the African banded barb dangerous to humans?
No, the African banded barb is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the African banded barb edible?
The African banded barb is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the African banded barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African banded barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enteromius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the African banded barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African banded barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.