Fin's Fish Guide
The Comizo barbel (Luciobarbus comizo) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Endemic to the fresh water of central and western Iberia, especially the Tagus and Guadiana basins, in slow to moderately flowing rivers and reservoirs.
Description
The comizo barbel is an elongate cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 80 cm. The yellow-brown body is often covered with dark speckles; the inferior mouth carries four barbels and thick lips, with which the fish probes the bottom. The species is adapted to flowing water and lives on gravel and stone bottoms of rivers. The comizo barbel stands out for its long, pointed snout and is one of the largest and most predatory barbels of Iberia. As an omnivore it seeks insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms and some plant material. In late spring and summer it spawns upstream on gravel. Like other barbels the roe and its membrane are mildly toxic in the spawning season and can cause stomach upset; the flesh itself is safe.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Comizo barbel?
The Comizo barbel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Oblong barbel with four barbels and thick lips around an inferior mouth; adapted to flowing water.
Where does the Comizo barbel live?
The Comizo barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to the fresh water of central and western Iberia, especially the Tagus and Guadiana basins, in slow to moderately flowing rivers and reservoirs.
How big does the Comizo barbel get?
The Comizo barbel grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Comizo barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Comizo barbel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Comizo barbel edible?
The Comizo barbel is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Luciobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Comizo barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Comizo barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.