Fin's Fish Guide
The African redfin barb (Enteromius camptacanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Fresh water of West Africa, in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
The African redfin barb is a small, silvery African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 16 cm. The slender body has two pairs of barbels around the mouth and stands out for its red-orange fins, especially the tail fin; breeding males are more vividly coloured. The species lives in schools in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant water plants in West Africa. As an omnivore it eats insects, zooplankton, algae and detritus. In the rainy season it spawns on flooded margins. For its handsome colours it occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby, and through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African redfin barb?
The African redfin barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, silvery barb with red-orange fins, especially the caudal fin, and two pairs of barbels.
Where does the African redfin barb live?
The African redfin barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of West Africa, in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
How big does the African redfin barb get?
The African redfin barb grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the African redfin barb dangerous to humans?
No, the African redfin barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African redfin barb edible?
The African redfin barb is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the African redfin barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African redfin 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 redfin barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African redfin barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.