Fin's Fish Guide
The Forest barb (Enteromius sylvaticus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 2 cm.
Description
The forest barb is an exceptionally small cyprinid barb from West Africa, known from Benin and the Niger delta in Nigeria. The species grows to only about 2 cm, making it one of the smallest barbs. It has a streamlined, silver-grey body with small black spots along the flank, lacks barbels and has no lateral line. It lives in fresh water and feeds omnivorously on small particles. Because of its very limited range the species is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Forest barb?
The Forest barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. One of the smallest barbs (about 2 cm); without barbels and without a lateral line
Where does the Forest barb live?
The Forest barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa
How big does the Forest barb get?
The Forest barb grows to a maximum of about 2 cm.
Is the Forest barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Forest 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 Forest barb edible?
The Forest barb is not usually eaten.
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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 Forest barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Forest barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.