Fin's Fish Guide
The Mbam barb (Labeobarbus mbami) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The Mbam barb is a large African barb (Cyprinidae) from rivers and lakes of the Mbam drainage in Cameroon. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a robust, elongate, silvery body with large scales and two pairs of barbels by the mouth. As a social omnivore it swims in schools and eats algae, water plants, insect larvae, molluscs and detritus. It is locally an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mbam barb?
The Mbam barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. African large barb with barbels; endangered by a restricted range and habitat loss.
Where does the Mbam barb live?
The Mbam barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Freshwater of West-Central Africa; rivers and streams.
How big does the Mbam barb get?
The Mbam barb grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Mbam barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Mbam barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Mbam barb edible?
The Mbam barb is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Labeobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Mbam barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mbam barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.