Tinfoil Barb

Barbonymus schwanenfeldii 

Habitat & Distribution :  Rivers of Southeast Asia

Diet : Aquatic plants, algae, detritus

Size : Up to 70 cm

Lifespan : 8-15 years

Description

It is distinguishable from other species of its genus in having a red dorsal fin with a black blotch at the tip, red pectoral, pelvic and anal fins, red caudal fin 

Behavior

Tinfoil barbs are highly active, schooling, "gentle giant" fish. They inhabit medium to large rivers, streams, canals, and flooded fields

Reproduction

They migrate back to natal spawning grounds, with adults returning to the river in October and young of the year following as water levels recede. 

Communication & Perception

Tinfoil barb are highly social, active, and peaceful schooling fish that use physical behaviors, visual cues, and social schooling to interact with their environment and other fish. 

Predator(s)

Birds, crocodiles, larger fish