Fin's Fish Guide
The Barbus barb (Enteromius barotseensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Barotse barb is a small African cyprinid from the Zambezi drainage in southern Africa. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body. It inhabits shallow, calm waters among vegetation along the edges of rivers and floodplains. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and detritus. It is a peaceful schooling fish. Owing to its small size it is mainly prey for larger fishes and birds and has no fishery value. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barbus barb?
The Barbus barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, peaceful shoaling barb of vegetated banks of the upper Zambezi.
Where does the Barbus barb live?
The Barbus barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa; shallow, vegetated bank zones of the Zambezi basin.
How big does the Barbus barb get?
The Barbus barb grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Barbus barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Barbus barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barbus barb edible?
The Barbus barb is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Barbus barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barbus barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.