The Bengala barb (Megarasbora elanga) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Description
The Bengala barb is a small cyprinid (Danionidae) from clear streams, rivers and lakes of the northeastern Indian subcontinent. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, silvery body sometimes with a fine dark longitudinal stripe. As a lively, social schooling fish it swims in the upper and middle layer and snaps at insects, larvae, small zooplankton and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bengala barb?
The Bengala barb has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Bengala barb live?
The Bengala barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Bengala barb get?
The Bengala barb grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Bengala barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Bengala barb is harmless to humans.
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Status & sources
More from the family Cyprinidae
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