Fin's Fish Guide
The Copperstripe barb (Enteromius multilineatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The copperstripe barb is a very small African freshwater fish of the carp family (Cyprinidae). The species reaches only about 4.5 cm and has a spindle-shaped, silvery body with fine coppery lengthwise stripes on the flank. It inhabits shallow, well-vegetated water in backwaters, floodplains and river margins. There it searches in schools for small invertebrates and plant matter. Like many barbs it has barbels to probe the substrate. The species is of little commercial value and is completely harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Copperstripe barb?
The Copperstripe barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Fine copper-coloured longitudinal stripes; has barbels.
Where does the Copperstripe barb live?
The Copperstripe barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of southern and Central Africa.
How big does the Copperstripe barb get?
The Copperstripe barb grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Copperstripe barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Copperstripe barb is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Copperstripe barb edible?
The Copperstripe barb is rarely 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 Copperstripe barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Copperstripe barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.