Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf barb (Pethia gelius) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 5 cm.
South Asia, in slow-flowing rivers, ponds, ditches and rice fields with vegetation.
Description
The dwarf barb is a very small cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 5 cm. The translucent golden to silvery body bears a few irregular dark blotches on the flank and lacks barbels. The species lives in schools in slow-flowing rivers, ponds, ditches and rice fields with plenty of vegetation in South Asia, such as India, Bangladesh and Nepal. As an omnivore it eats small zooplankton, insect larvae and algae. In the rainy season it lays its sticky eggs among fine water plants. Because of its modest size, peaceful nature and golden colour the dwarf barb is a popular fish for the planted community aquarium; it does not occur in European waters.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf barb?
The Dwarf barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Very small, translucent golden barb with a few dark blotches on the flank; a popular aquarium fish.
Where does the Dwarf barb live?
The Dwarf barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South Asia, in slow-flowing rivers, ponds, ditches and rice fields with vegetation.
How big does the Dwarf barb get?
The Dwarf barb grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Dwarf barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dwarf barb edible?
The Dwarf barb is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Pethia
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Dwarf barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.