Redspot barb
📖 Overview
Quick, active fish found in shoals . Found in lakes and rivers , including fast flowing, sluggish and temporary streams ; also in mountain streams and along vegetated fringes of large rivers and in rocky bottom environments . Feeds on insects , debris, molluscs, plant material , seeds and algae . Migrates upstream when rain comes . Breeds in flood plains during rains .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 3; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7 - 8; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 8. Diagnosis: Last unbranched ray of the dorsal fin hardened and with posterior side toothed . Presence of a brilliant orange spot on the operculum is characteristic for this species .: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Redspot barb is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Redspot barb is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Redspot barb is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic; pH range: 6.5 - 7.5; dH range: 18 - ?. Tropical; 23°C - 26°C ; 10°S - 21°S
🌿 Ecology
insects (Ref
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Redspot barb is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Redspot barb is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Redspot barb has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barbus akeleyi | Hubbs | 1918 | Synonym |
| Barbus kerstenii | Peters | 1868 | Synonym |
| Barbus kerstenii kerstenii | Peters | 1868 | Synonym |
| Barbus lumiensis | Boulenger | 1903 | Synonym |
| Barbus minchinii | Boulenger | 1906 | Synonym |
| Barbus nigrolinea | Pfeffer | 1889 | Synonym |
| Barbus salmo | Pfeffer | 1896 | Synonym |
| Barbus tangandensis | Jubb | 1954 | Synonym |
| Labeobarbus kerstenii | Peters | 1868 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 190 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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