Federation of British Aquatic Societies

Designed around upon the FBAS comprehensive list of commonly-kept species, these Care Sheets are categorised as those found in FBAS Show Classes.

Details of all species referred to in these Fish Care Sheets can be found in the FBAS Booklet No 6 - National Show Fish Sizes. Click HERE for information.

Large Barbs

Genera : Barbus, Cyclocheilichthys, Leptobarbus

Family : Cyprinidae

Geographic Origin : Asia, Africa.

Common Names : Tinfoil Barb, Lemon Fin Barb, Red-cheeked Barb

Compatibility : These will grow into fish at least 5 inches in length and some up
to 18 inches. They are boisterous and so small fish may be at a
disadvantage.

Minimum aquarium size : A 900 x 380 x 300mm (36" x 15" x 12") tank should
                                    be considered as the minimum. For the very large fish,
                                    then tank of at least 1500 x 450 x 380mm (60" x 18"
                                    x 15") will be necessary.

Temperature : Between 20^o and 28⁰C is generally considered to be
satisfactory. Some variation is acceptable.

Habitat : Can be found equally in slow moving streams and fast running rivers.

Water Parameters : These fish come from soft water areas but readily adapt
to hard water with no deleterious effects.

Health : Not particularly prone to health problems. Accidental damage due
to knocking into rockwork may lead to Fungus problems. Treat in a
separate tank.

Diet : Omnivorous. Some species are plant eaters, so research the species
before you buy.

Plants: See above. Others will enjoy a well-planted tank.
Broad-leaved plants, such as Amazon Swordplants (Echinodorus spp)
are ideal.

Breeding Notes : See Breeding Notes for Small Asian Barbs

Availability: Usually some available. Research before purchase to ensure that
the small fish you buy is not going to grow into an 18 inch
monster.

Show Class : F.B.A.S. Show Class Ba or B
(Some other 'Barbs' may be classified into Class M).

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