Tinfoil Barb

Temp. Range:    72-80°F. pH:    6.5-7.5 dH range:    5.0 - 19.0 Adult Size:    14"

Barbus schwanenfeldi

Tinfoil Barb $2.99 Buy Tinfoil Barbs

Native Region:    Thailand.
Temperament:    Community, but large fish only.
Feeding:    Feed with large quantities of flakes, small fish, vegetables, shrimp pellets and even soaked dog biscuits when they get larger. Not hard to keep except for it's very large size.  Plants will be uprooted and eaten.
Sexing:    Only God & they know.
General Comments:    Not for the beginner and need to be kept with several others in a large tank.

    The Tinfoil Barb has large, distinct silvery metallic scales, red-tipped fins, and a forked tail characteristic of a fast-swimming fish. The shimmering silver scales of this active swimmer reflect light as the Tinfoil Barb maneuvers its way in the aquarium. It is not difficult to see why this eye-catching, tinfoil-like attribute gave rise to the common name of Barbus schwanefeldi.

    The Tinfoil Barb is a very hardy fish and compared to other barbs, quite docile in nature. This peaceful demeanor and glittery body make the Tinfoil Barb an attractive addition to the large community aquarium. As a schooling fish, the Tinfoil Barb should be kept in a group of at least 6 or more individuals with other non-aggressive large fish.

    Wild Tinfoil Barbs inhabit large, fast flowing rivers of Southeast Asia. The home aquarium should best recreate the natural environment of the Tinfoil Barb by maintaining good filtration and strong water movement. Tinfoil Barbs can reach an adult size over a foot in length so it is essential to house this fish in a larger aquarium of at least 70 gallons in size. Also, the Tinfoil Barb is a known jumper so a tight-fitting canopy or hood is required to prevent injury.

Breeding Tinfoil Barbs and Raising Fry    (Opens a new browser window for members of Aquarium-Club.com)
Other Barb Species    (Opens a new browser window for members of Aquarium-Club.com)

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