Fin's Fish Guide
The Onestripe barb (Enteromius unitaeniatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
The onestripe barb is a slender, silvery African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 14 cm. The body is silvery with a golden sheen and bears a conspicuous dark stripe along the flank that gives the species its name; fine barbels surround the mouth. The species lives in schools in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant water plants in West and Central Africa. As an omnivore it eats insects, small crustaceans, algae and detritus, taken in the water column and from the bottom. In the rainy season it spawns on flooded margins, 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 Onestripe barb?
The Onestripe barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, silvery small African barb with a dark longitudinal stripe along the flank and barbels around the mouth.
Where does the Onestripe barb live?
The Onestripe barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
How big does the Onestripe barb get?
The Onestripe barb grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Onestripe barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Onestripe barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Onestripe barb edible?
The Onestripe barb is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enteromius
More from the family Cyprinidae
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