Fin's Fish Guide
The Niger barb (Labeobarbus bynni) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 82 cm.
Africa, in the large rivers and lakes of, among others, the Nile and Niger basins.
Description
The Niger barb is a robust African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 82 cm. The streamlined, silvery body has large scales, an inferior mouth with fleshy lips and two pairs of barbels, with which the fish probes the bottom for food. The species lives in large rivers and lakes of Africa, including the Nile and Niger basins, forming schools over mixed bottoms. As an omnivore it eats bottom animals, insect larvae, algae and plant matter. In the rainy season it migrates upstream to spawn when rivers flood. The Niger barb is locally an important food and angling fish and provides protein-rich food for local communities.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Niger barb?
The Niger barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Robust African barb with large scales, two pairs of barbels and an inferior mouth with fleshy lips.
Where does the Niger barb live?
The Niger barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Africa, in the large rivers and lakes of, among others, the Nile and Niger basins.
How big does the Niger barb get?
The Niger barb grows to a maximum of about 82 cm.
Is the Niger barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Niger barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Niger barb edible?
Yes, the Niger barb is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Niger barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Niger barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.