Fin's Fish Guide
The Sidebar barb (Enteromius taeniopleura) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Central and East Africa; rivers, streams and floodplains with vegetation.
Description
The sidebar barb is a small African cyprinid from Central and East Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a dark band or blotches along the flank. It inhabits rivers, brooks and floodplains with vegetation. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and detritus. It is a peaceful schooling fish that stays among water plants. Owing to its small size it is mainly prey for larger fishes and is of limited fishery value. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sidebar barb?
The Sidebar barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Dark band or blotches along the flank; peaceful small schooling barb of vegetated waters.
Where does the Sidebar barb live?
The Sidebar barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central and East Africa; rivers, streams and floodplains with vegetation.
How big does the Sidebar barb get?
The Sidebar barb grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Sidebar barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Sidebar barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sidebar barb edible?
The Sidebar barb is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Sidebar barb?
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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 Sidebar barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sidebar barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.