Fin's Fish Guide
The Heckel's Orontes barbell (Luciobarbus pectoralis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
Heckel's barbel is a freshwater barbel from the Middle East, mainly the Orontes drainage. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with an inferior mouth and two pairs of barbels. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it lives in flowing rivers and lakes and searches the bed for insect larvae, molluscs, algae and detritus. It is a local food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Heckel's Orontes barbell?
The Heckel's Orontes barbell has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Inferior mouth and two pairs of barbels; bottom-oriented river fish
Where does the Heckel's Orontes barbell live?
The Heckel's Orontes barbell lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Middle East
How big does the Heckel's Orontes barbell get?
The Heckel's Orontes barbell grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Heckel's Orontes barbell dangerous to humans?
No, the Heckel's Orontes barbell 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 Heckel's Orontes barbell edible?
Yes, the Heckel's Orontes barbell is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Luciobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Heckel's Orontes barbell?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Heckel's Orontes barbell is one of 12,519 species in the app.