Fin's Fish Guide
The Threespot barb (Enteromius trispilomimus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 5 cm.
West-Central Africa; coastal rivers from Cameroon to the Chiloango (Cabinda/DR Congo).
Description
The threespot barb is a tiny African cyprinid of the genus Enteromius from West-Central Africa. The species grows to only about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body usually bearing a few dark spots on the flank, to which its name refers, and short barbels at the mouth. It lives in schools in flowing and standing fresh waters and is an omnivore feeding on small invertebrates, algae and detritus. As a small schooling fish it is prey for larger fishes. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Threespot barb?
The Threespot barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Tiny barb with a few dark flank blotches and short barbels.
Where does the Threespot barb live?
The Threespot barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West-Central Africa; coastal rivers from Cameroon to the Chiloango (Cabinda/DR Congo).
How big does the Threespot barb get?
The Threespot barb grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Threespot barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Threespot barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Threespot barb edible?
The Threespot barb is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Threespot barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Threespot 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 Enteromius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Threespot barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Threespot barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.