Fin's Fish Guide
The Common barb (Barbodes binotatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Southeast Asia, from sea level to high in mountain streams, often below waterfalls in isolated streams and on small islands.
Description
The spotted barb is a cyprinid (family Cyprinidae) of Southeast Asia. The species reaches about 20 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a few dark spots and short barbels. It occurs from sea level to high in the mountains and is often found below waterfalls in isolated mountain streams and on small islands, where few other fishes live. Its diet consists of small invertebrates, insects, algae and plant matter. The species lives in schools and is of modest commercial value. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common barb?
The Common barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Occurs from the lowlands to high in the mountains; often below waterfalls in isolated streams.
Where does the Common barb live?
The Common barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia, from sea level to high in mountain streams, often below waterfalls in isolated streams and on small islands.
How big does the Common barb get?
The Common barb grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Common barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Common barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common barb edible?
The Common barb is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Barbodes
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Common barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.