Fin's Fish Guide
The Italian barbel (Barbus plebejus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Italian peninsula; flowing sections of hill and lowland rivers with gravel and sandy bottoms.
Description
The Italian barbel is a cyprinid from the rivers of the Italian peninsula and the northern Adriatic side. The species grows to about 70 cm and has an elongate, streamlined body with an inferior mouth bearing four barbels, adapted to life on the bottom of flowing water. It is a long-lived species inhabiting the flowing reaches of hill and lowland rivers with gravel and sand bottoms. As a bottom searcher it roots with its barbels for insect larvae, small invertebrates, worms and plant matter. The flesh is eaten, but the roe (eggs) can cause gastrointestinal upset in the spawning season; do not eat the eggs. It is otherwise harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Italian barbel?
The Italian barbel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Long-lived bottom-dwelling barbel with four barbels; the flesh is eaten, but the roe can cause gastrointestinal complaints.
Where does the Italian barbel live?
The Italian barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Italian peninsula; flowing sections of hill and lowland rivers with gravel and sandy bottoms.
How big does the Italian barbel get?
The Italian barbel grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Italian barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Italian barbel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Italian barbel edible?
Yes, the Italian barbel is commonly eaten.
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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 Italian barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Italian barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.