Fin's Fish Guide
The Upjaw barb (Coptostomabarbus wittei) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Central and southern Africa; swamps and floodplains with dense vegetation.
Description
The upjaw barb is a tiny African cyprinid from Central and southern Africa. The species grows to only about 4 cm and has a slender body with a conspicuously upturned (superior) mouth, to which the name refers. It inhabits swamps and floodplains in shallow, densely vegetated still-water habitats. With its superior mouth it picks prey from the water surface and column: mosquito larvae, small zooplankton and other small invertebrates. It is a peaceful schooling fish. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Upjaw barb?
The Upjaw barb has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly superior mouth for picking prey from the surface; tiny swamp fish.
Where does the Upjaw barb live?
The Upjaw barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central and southern Africa; swamps and floodplains with dense vegetation.
How big does the Upjaw barb get?
The Upjaw barb grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Upjaw barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Upjaw barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Upjaw barb edible?
The Upjaw barb is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Upjaw barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Upjaw barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Upjaw barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Upjaw barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.