Fin's Fish Guide
The Mekong flying barb (Esomus longimanus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Mekong flying barb is a flying barb (Cyprinidae) from slow-flowing and still fresh water of the Mekong basin in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a conspicuously long pair of barbels and large pectoral fins. As a social surface fish it swims in schools and snaps at insects falling on the water, larvae and small zooplankton; when threatened it can skim a short distance over the surface. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mekong flying barb?
The Mekong flying barb has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Mekong flying barb live?
The Mekong flying barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Cambodia, Laos, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Mekong flying barb get?
The Mekong flying barb grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Mekong flying barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Mekong flying barb is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Mekong flying barb edible?
Yes, the Mekong flying barb is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Esomus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Mekong flying barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mekong flying barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.