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| Barbonymus schwanenfeldii (Tinfoil Barb) |
| Family: |
Cyprinidae |
| Maximum Size: |
14" (35.0cm) |
| Distribution: |
Found in the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo (Asia) |
| Temperature Range: |
72-77oF (22-25oC) |
| pH Range: |
6.5 to 7.0 |
| Water Hardness: |
up to 10.0 dH |
 Barbonymus schwanenfeldii can be distinguished from other closely related Barbonymus species by its red dorsal fin with a black blotch at the tip, red pectoral, pelvic and anal fins, red caudal fin with white margin and a black submarginal stripe along each lobe, and 8 scale rows between the dorsal-fin origin and the lateral line. B. schwanenfeldii is commonly found in rivers, streams, canals and ditches. They are primarily herbivores, consuming aquatic plants and submerged terrestrial plants, as well as filamentous algae. Tinfoil Barbs can and do supplement their diet in the wild with insects, worms, crustaceans, and even small fish. In captivity, Tinfoil Barbs should be kept in a large aquarium with plenty of swimming room. They appreciate plenty of vegetation, but since plants are a large part of their diet, it is best to choose very robust plant species or artificial plants. This fish's adult size is well over one foot in length, so a large tank is absolutely necessary if it is to reach its full size and live its full lifespan. B. schwanenfeldii has not been reported to breed in home aquaria, but they are bred successfully commercially. There is anecdotal evidence that soft, acidic water is required for spawning. |
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