Fin's Fish Guide
The Chola barb (Puntius chola) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The swamp barb is a small cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from South Asia. The species has a deep, silvery body with a golden sheen and often a dark spot at the tail base and behind the gills. It inhabits a wide range of shallow waters: streams, rivers, canals, pools and inundated fields. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, small invertebrates, algae and plant matter. It is a small local food and aquarium fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chola barb?
The Chola barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Golden sheen with a dark blotch at the tail base; adaptable small barb of all kinds of shallow waters.
Where does the Chola barb live?
The Chola barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South Asia; shallow streams, rivers, canals and pools.
How big does the Chola barb get?
The Chola barb grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Chola barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Chola barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chola barb edible?
Yes, the Chola barb is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Puntius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Chola barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chola barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.