Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbel chub (Squaliobarbus curriculus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 49 cm.
Description
The barbel chub is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from East Asia. The species has an elongate, streamlined, silvery body with fine dark lengthwise lines and two short barbels. It inhabits rivers and larger streams, where it lives in the open water layers and occurs in schools. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, small invertebrates, algae and plant matter. It is a valued food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbel chub?
The Barbel chub has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Streamlined body with fine longitudinal lines and short barbels; open-water food fish.
Where does the Barbel chub live?
The Barbel chub lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia; rivers and larger streams.
How big does the Barbel chub get?
The Barbel chub grows to a maximum of about 49 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Barbel chub dangerous to humans?
No, the Barbel chub is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barbel chub edible?
Yes, the Barbel chub is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Barbel chub?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barbel chub is one of 12,519 species in the app.