Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbel (Barbodes semifasciolatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Chinese barb is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from East Asia. The species is small and has a gold-green to silvery body with a few short, dark crossbars on the rear flank. It inhabits streams, rivers and ditches and lives in schools near the bottom. As an omnivore it feeds on worms, crustaceans, insects, plant matter and detritus. It is popular in the aquarium hobby, where a golden cultivated form is known. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbel?
The Barbel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Golden-green with short dark vertical bars; popular small aquarium fish with a golden bred form.
Where does the Barbel live?
The Barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia; streams, rivers and ditches.
How big does the Barbel get?
The Barbel grows to a maximum of about 7 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Barbel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barbel edible?
The Barbel is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the 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 Barbodes
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.