Fin's Fish Guide
The Crimean barbel (Barbus tauricus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Fresh water of the northern Black Sea region: rivers of Crimea and adjoining coasts; fast-flowing rivers with a gravel and stony bottom.
Description
The crimean barbel is an elongate cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 70 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 cool, flowing water and lives on gravel and stone bottoms of the upper and middle reaches of rivers. In the rivers of Crimea the species has declined sharply through water abstraction and pollution. 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 Crimean barbel?
The Crimean 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 Crimean barbel live?
The Crimean barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of the northern Black Sea region: rivers of Crimea and adjoining coasts; fast-flowing rivers with a gravel and stony bottom.
How big does the Crimean barbel get?
The Crimean barbel grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Crimean barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Crimean barbel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Crimean barbel edible?
The Crimean 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 Barbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Crimean barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crimean barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.