Fin's Fish Guide
The Andalusian barbel (Luciobarbus sclateri) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Endemic to the fresh water of southern Spain, especially the Guadalquivir basin, in rivers, streams and reservoirs with a gravel and stone bottom.
Description
The andalusian barbel is an elongate cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 49.5 cm. The yellow-brown body is often covered with dark speckles; the inferior mouth carries four barbels and thick lips, with which the fish probes the bottom. The species is adapted to flowing water and lives on gravel and stone bottoms of rivers. The species is common in its range and is readily fished. As an omnivore it seeks insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms and some plant material. In late spring and summer it spawns upstream on gravel. Like other barbels the roe and its membrane are mildly toxic in the spawning season and can cause stomach upset; the flesh itself is safe.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Andalusian barbel?
The Andalusian barbel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Oblong barbel with four barbels and thick lips around an inferior mouth; adapted to flowing water.
Where does the Andalusian barbel live?
The Andalusian barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to the fresh water of southern Spain, especially the Guadalquivir basin, in rivers, streams and reservoirs with a gravel and stone bottom.
How big does the Andalusian barbel get?
The Andalusian barbel grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Andalusian barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Andalusian barbel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Andalusian barbel edible?
The Andalusian barbel is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Andalusian barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Andalusian barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Luciobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Andalusian barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Andalusian barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.