Fin's Fish Guide
The Smallscale barb (Enteromius miolepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in streams, rivers and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
The smallscale barb is a small, silvery African barb of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 13 cm. The slender body has small barbels around the mouth and bears several dark spots along the flank; the scales are relatively small. 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 Smallscale barb?
The Smallscale barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Small, silvery African barb with small barbels and a few dark blotches along the flank.
Where does the Smallscale barb live?
The Smallscale 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 Smallscale barb get?
The Smallscale barb grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Smallscale barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Smallscale barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Smallscale barb edible?
The Smallscale barb is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Smallscale barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smallscale 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 Smallscale barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smallscale barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.