Fin's Fish Guide
The Line-spotted barb (Enteromius lineomaculatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, in lakes, rivers, swamps and floodplains.
Description
The line-spotted barb is a small, silvery African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 9 cm. The slender body bears a row of dark spots along the flank and has small barbels around the mouth. The species lives in schools in lakes, rivers, swamps and floodplains of eastern and southern Africa. As an omnivore it eats insects, zooplankton, algae and detritus, taken in the water column and from the bottom. In the rainy season it spawns on flooded margins and floodplains, where the young grow up quickly. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and waterbirds.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Line-spotted barb?
The Line-spotted barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small, silvery African barb with a row of dark blotches along the flank and small barbels.
Where does the Line-spotted barb live?
The Line-spotted barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, in lakes, rivers, swamps and floodplains.
How big does the Line-spotted barb get?
The Line-spotted barb grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Line-spotted barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Line-spotted barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Line-spotted barb edible?
The Line-spotted barb is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
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 Line-spotted barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Line-spotted barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.