Fin's Fish Guide
The Tailspot barb (Enteromius urostigma) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The tailspot barb is a small cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae from the fresh waters of Africa. The species is small and has a slender, silvery body with a conspicuous dark spot on the tail base, to which the name refers. It lives in schools in streams and small rivers, where among water plants and over the bottom it forages on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and detritus. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tailspot barb?
The Tailspot barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Dark caudal blotch; small African schooling barb of streams.
Where does the Tailspot barb live?
The Tailspot barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater in Africa; streams and small rivers.
How big does the Tailspot barb get?
The Tailspot barb grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Tailspot barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Tailspot barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Tailspot barb edible?
The Tailspot barb is not usually eaten.
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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 Tailspot barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tailspot barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.