Fin's Fish Guide
The Thamalakane barb (Enteromius thamalakanensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Southern Africa; vegetated banks of rivers, lagoons and floodplain pools.
Description
The Thamalakane barb is a tiny African cyprinid of the genus Enteromius from southern Africa. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body with short barbels at the mouth. It favours well-vegetated margins of rivers and lagoons, floodplain pools and backwaters. As an omnivore it feeds on insects and periphyton (growth). It breeds in summer, laying its eggs among the vegetation. Owing to its small size it is prey for larger fishes and has no fishery value. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thamalakane barb?
The Thamalakane barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small barb of vegetated banks and floodplains; spawns in summer among vegetation.
Where does the Thamalakane barb live?
The Thamalakane barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa; vegetated banks of rivers, lagoons and floodplain pools.
How big does the Thamalakane barb get?
The Thamalakane barb grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Thamalakane barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Thamalakane barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Thamalakane barb edible?
The Thamalakane 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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thamalakane barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.