Fin's Fish Guide
The Surkis barb (Labeobarbus surkis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
The Surkis barb is a large African barb (Cyprinidae) from rivers and lakes of Lake Tana in Ethiopia in East Africa. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a robust, elongate, silvery body with large scales and two pairs of barbels by the mouth. As a social omnivore it swims in schools and eats algae, water plants, insect larvae, molluscs and detritus. It is locally an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Surkis barb?
The Surkis barb has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Surkis barb live?
The Surkis barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Africa: Ethiopia
How big does the Surkis barb get?
The Surkis barb grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Surkis barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Surkis 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.
Want the complete picture on the Surkis barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Surkis 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 Labeobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Surkis barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Surkis barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.