Fin's Fish Guide
The Sri Lanka filament barb (Dawkinsia singhala) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Sri Lanka filament barb is a small cyprinid endemic to fresh water of Sri Lanka. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a pinkish tinge and a few dark blotches; adult males develop thread-like elongated dorsal-fin rays. It schools in clear, flowing streams and rivers and feeds on insects, small zooplankton and algae. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sri Lanka filament barb?
The Sri Lanka filament barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Thread-like elongated dorsal fin rays (male); schooling stream barb
Where does the Sri Lanka filament barb live?
The Sri Lanka filament barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Sri Lanka (endemic)
How big does the Sri Lanka filament barb get?
The Sri Lanka filament barb grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Sri Lanka filament barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Sri Lanka filament barb is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Sri Lanka filament barb edible?
The Sri Lanka filament barb is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dawkinsia
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Sri Lanka filament barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sri Lanka filament barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.