Fin's Fish Guide
The Pellegrin's barb (Enteromius pellegrini) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
Pellegrin's barb is a small, silvery African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 12 cm. The slender body bears several dark spots on the flank and has two pairs of barbels around 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, zooplankton, 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 Pellegrin's barb?
The Pellegrin's barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small, silvery African barb with a few dark blotches on the flank and two pairs of barbels.
Where does the Pellegrin's barb live?
The Pellegrin's barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
How big does the Pellegrin's barb get?
The Pellegrin's barb grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Pellegrin's barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Pellegrin's barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pellegrin's barb edible?
The Pellegrin's 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
Want the complete picture on the Pellegrin's barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pellegrin's barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.