Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo barb (Clypeobarbus congicus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Central Africa; calm, vegetated parts of rivers and creeks of the Congo basin.
Description
The Congo barb is a small African cyprinid from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 7.5 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a fine scale pattern. It inhabits quiet, vegetated parts of rivers and creeks. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and detritus. It is a peaceful schooling fish that stays among water plants. Owing to its small size it is mainly prey for larger fishes and has no fishery value. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo barb?
The Congo barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, peaceful shoaling barb of vegetated waters of the Congo basin.
Where does the Congo barb live?
The Congo barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central Africa; calm, vegetated parts of rivers and creeks of the Congo basin.
How big does the Congo barb get?
The Congo barb grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Congo barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Congo barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Congo barb edible?
The Congo barb is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Clypeobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Congo barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Congo barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.