Fin's Fish Guide
The Iberian barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Endemic to the fresh water of the north-west of the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), in the upper and middle reaches of rivers such as the Douro and the Tagus.
Description
The iberian barbel is an elongate cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 80 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 flowing water and lives on gravel and stone bottoms of rivers. It is one of the largest cyprinids of the peninsula and a popular sport fish. 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 Iberian barbel?
The Iberian barbel has a torpedo-shaped 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 Iberian barbel live?
The Iberian barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to the fresh water of the north-west of the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), in the upper and middle reaches of rivers such as the Douro and the Tagus.
How big does the Iberian barbel get?
The Iberian barbel grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Iberian barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Iberian barbel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Iberian barbel edible?
The Iberian barbel is rarely 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 Iberian barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Iberian barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.