Fin's Fish Guide
The Redspot barb (Enteromius kerstenii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, in streams, rivers, swamps and floodplains.
Description
The redspot barb is a small, silvery African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 9 cm. The slender body bears several dark spots on the flank and often a reddish tinge on the fins; two pairs of barbels sit around the mouth. The species lives in schools in streams, rivers, swamps and floodplains of eastern and southern 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 Redspot barb?
The Redspot barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small, silvery African barb with a few dark blotches and often a reddish tinge on the fins; two pairs of barbels.
Where does the Redspot barb live?
The Redspot barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, in streams, rivers, swamps and floodplains.
How big does the Redspot barb get?
The Redspot barb grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Redspot barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Redspot barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redspot barb edible?
The Redspot 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 Redspot barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redspot barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.