Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbel (Barbus barbus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 120 cm.
Fresh water of Western and Central Europe, mainly in fast-flowing, oxygen-rich rivers with a gravel or sandy bottom (the barbel zone).
Description
The barbel is a robust, current-loving cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 1.2 metres. The elongate, muscular body is yellow-brown with a white belly and has an inferior, fleshy mouth with four barbels, with which the fish searches gravel and sand for food by touch. The species lives in schools on the bottom of fast-flowing, oxygen-rich rivers of western and central Europe, in the so-called barbel zone. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, snails, worms, crustaceans and plant matter. In late spring it spawns over gravel. The barbel is a powerful, valued sport fish, but its roe is toxic to people and must not be eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbel?
The Barbel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Current-loving cyprinid with an elongate body, four barbels and an inferior, fleshy mouth; the roe is poisonous to humans.
Where does the Barbel live?
The Barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of Western and Central Europe, mainly in fast-flowing, oxygen-rich rivers with a gravel or sandy bottom (the barbel zone).
How big does the Barbel get?
The Barbel grows to a maximum of about 120 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Barbel is harmless to humans. Harmless to touch, but the roe (eggs) of the barbel is toxic and causes stomach and intestinal upset if eaten; do not eat the roe. Seek medical help if symptoms occur.
Is the Barbel edible?
The Barbel is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Barbel and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Barbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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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.