Tinfoil Barb (Barbonymus schwanenfeldii)

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This big peaceful silver minnow has a diamond body and red fins. The eyes and gill covers are golden and the dorsal and caudal fin have elements of black. There are 4 small barbels on the mouth.

The Tinfoil barb is a large fish that forms loose schools. This fish is capable of high speed and has constant motion so it needs an extremely large aquarium. 30 cm is the expected size. Tinfoil barbs should be kept in aquariums at least 110 gallons, larger if possible. If it is kept singly it will become aggressive. Since it forms shoals 4 is the bare minimum. It will be much more beautiful and have more natural behavior in a group of 6 or more, in an extremely large aquarium.

This big barb is often considered a plant eater. To be safe use bitter plants such as java fern, hornwort or mosses. It needs extra supplements of vegetable matter in it's diet, however it still considers small fish and crustaceans food.

This skittish fish is prone to jump or collide with decor and injure itself when startled. Avoid sharp decor and avoid startling this big timid animal if all possible. Although it is very hardy it is not a good fish for beginners. Don't buy them unless you have a huge aquarium ready for them. It will not likely breed in the average aquarium.

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These fishes will not eat crinum sp. or moss, although they tend to uproot them. Make sure that they are firmly anchored.

Java fern is eaten by these barbs...