Fin's Fish Guide
The Redside barb (Enteromius radiatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and central Africa, in streams, rivers, swamps and floodplains.
Description
The redside barb is a small, silvery African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 12 cm. The slender body bears several dark spots; in the male the flank turns reddish in the breeding season. Two pairs of barbels sit around the mouth. The species lives in schools in streams, rivers, swamps and floodplains of eastern 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. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and waterbirds and occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redside barb?
The Redside barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small, silvery African barb with a few dark blotches and, in the male, a reddish flank in the spawning season.
Where does the Redside barb live?
The Redside barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of eastern and central Africa, in streams, rivers, swamps and floodplains.
How big does the Redside barb get?
The Redside barb grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Redside barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Redside barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redside barb edible?
The Redside barb is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Redside barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redside barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Redside barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redside barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.