Fin's Fish Guide
The Jae barb (Enteromius jae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving, densely vegetated water of forest streams and creeks.
Description
The jae barb is a very small, slender African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 4 cm - a true dwarf species. The brownish body bears a few dark spots on the flank and has small barbels around the mouth; breeding males are more boldly marked. The species comes from West and Central Africa and lives in schools in slow, densely vegetated water of forest streams and creeks. As an omnivore it eats small zooplankton, insect larvae and growth. It spawns scattered among fine water plants. For its small size and handsome markings it is popular in the small community aquarium, and in the wild it is a prey fish for larger species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Jae barb?
The Jae barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Very small, slender African barb with a few dark blotches on the flank and small barbels; a dwarf species.
Where does the Jae barb live?
The Jae barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in slow-moving, densely vegetated water of forest streams and creeks.
How big does the Jae barb get?
The Jae barb grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Jae barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Jae barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Jae barb edible?
The Jae barb is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Enteromius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Jae barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Jae barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.