Tinfoil Barb

• ExerciseVery high

  A powerful swimmer that needs a long tank and real swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceMid-size tank

  Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment8–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

The Tinfoil Barb (Barbonymus schwanenfeldii) comes from large rivers across South East Asia and reaches about 30 to 35 cm. It is bright silver with red or orange fins, often with black fin edges. It is regularly sold as a five centimetre community fish, and the resulting adults are among the most commonly rehomed large aquarium fish, alongside the sailfin pleco and the common goldfish kept in a bowl. A shoal of five or more, which it genuinely needs, requires 800 litres or more, and a long tank above all, at 22-28C, pH 6.5 to 7.8, with powerful filtration and flow. Feed a quality pellet with a strong vegetable component, blanched vegetables and frozen foods, since it is largely herbivorous and will eat every soft plant in the tank. It is peaceful with fish it cannot swallow and a jumper that needs a covered tank. This is a fine fish for a very large aquarium or an indoor pond, and an unfair purchase for a standard home tank, which is worth deciding before rather than after.

• How active is a Tinfoil Barb?

  Very high. A powerful swimmer that needs a long tank and real swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Tinfoil Barb need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Tinfoil Barb need?

  Mid-size tank. Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Is a Tinfoil Barb a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Tinfoil Barb live?

  8–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Tinfoil Barb?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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