Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowfin barbel (Luciobarbus xanthopterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Description
The yellowfin barbel is a large freshwater barb (Cyprinidae) from the Tigris-Euphrates drainage in the Middle East. The species grows to about 1.5 metres and has a sturdy, silver-grey body with yellowish fins, an inferior mouth and two pairs of barbels. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it lives in rivers, lakes and marshes and eats molluscs, insect larvae, plant material and detritus. It is an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowfin barbel?
The Yellowfin barbel has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Yellowfin barbel live?
The Yellowfin barbel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Iran, Iraq, Türkiye
How big does the Yellowfin barbel get?
The Yellowfin barbel grows to a maximum of about 150 cm.
Is the Yellowfin barbel dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowfin barbel 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.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Yellowfin barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowfin barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Luciobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellowfin barbel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowfin barbel is one of 12,519 species in the app.