Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfly barb (Enteromius hulstaerti) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Central Africa; clear forest streams and pools with soft, acidic water of the Congo basin.
Description
The butterfly barb is a tiny, colourful African cyprinid from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to only about 3.5 cm and has a yellowish body with a few conspicuous round black spots, to which the English name 'butterfly barb' refers. It inhabits clear, quiet forest brooks and pools with soft, acidic water. As a small omnivore it feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae and growth. It is a peaceful schooling fish popular in the aquarium. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterfly barb?
The Butterfly barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Yellowish with striking round black blotches ('butterfly barb'); tiny forest stream fish.
Where does the Butterfly barb live?
The Butterfly barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central Africa; clear forest streams and pools with soft, acidic water of the Congo basin.
How big does the Butterfly barb get?
The Butterfly barb grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Butterfly barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterfly barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Butterfly barb edible?
The Butterfly 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 Butterfly barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterfly barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.