Fin's Fish Guide
The Swamp barb (Puntius brevis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The swamp barb is a small cyprinid from fresh water of South and Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a stocky, silvery body with a golden tinge and often a dark spot near the tail base. It schools in slow rivers, swamps, ditches and rice fields and feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae, algae and detritus. It is a local food and bait fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Swamp barb?
The Swamp barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Golden tinge and a dark tail blotch; schooling small swamp barb
Where does the Swamp barb live?
The Swamp barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South and Southeast Asia
How big does the Swamp barb get?
The Swamp barb grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Swamp barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Swamp 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 Swamp barb edible?
Yes, the Swamp barb is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Puntius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Swamp barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Swamp barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.