Barbonymus Schwanefeldii

Datasheet

General Description

The Tinfoil Barb, scientifically known as Barbonymus Schwanefeldii, is a commonly traded species often confused with its congener, B. altus. These fish are typically sold at small sizes with limited information on their eventual size, contributing to many being returned due to outgrowing aquariums. Selectively bred ornamental color forms like 'golden' and 'blushing' strains are available, but all variants have similar care requirements inappropriately suited for most home setups. With defining features described by Kottelat (1998), distinctions between B. altus and B. schwanefeldii include caudal-fin color patterns and body hues.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Tinfoil Barbs, a critical aspect is providing ample open swimming space along with high water quality for their well-being. While the decor choice is flexible, emphasizing the installation of one or two large external filters is crucial for optimal oxygen levels, water flow, and bacterial colonization. Due to their skittish nature and potent leaping ability, a securely fitted tank cover is recommended.

Behaviour

Tinfoil Barbs are not typically aggressive but may prey on small fish and unsettle slower or shyer tank mates due to their active and vigorous feeding behavior. To foster a more natural display and intriguing interactions among the fish, keeping them in groups of six or more is essential. In nature, these fish swim in large schools, and insufficient numbers in an aquarium can lead to skittish or aggressive behavior in some individuals.

Feeding and Diet

Considered omnivorous opportunists, Tinfoil Barbs primarily exhibit herbivorous tendencies in the wild, consuming invertebrates, algae, smaller fish, plants, and even carcasses. In aquariums, they readily accept various foods, including live, frozen, and dried options. Supplementing their diet with vegetable matter like peas, courgette, spinach, and fruits is beneficial. Larger specimens may also consume earthworms, prawns, and mussels, but overfeeding should be avoided.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

While not commonly bred in private aquaria, Tinfoil Barbs are utilized in aquaculture projects, often requiring hormone stimulation for spawning. As egg-scatterers without parental care, females can release thousands of eggs in a single event. Sexual dimorphism is minimal, with mature females typically exhibiting a deeper body when gravid, while no other external differences are noticeable.

Habitat and Distribution

Inhabiting medium-sized affluent river channels and floodplains that flood during the wet season, Tinfoil Barbs are increasingly found in man-made canals and lakes. They retreat to inundated riparian areas and forests for feeding and spawning during wet months, returning to rivers as waters recede. With a vast distribution across Southeast Asia, these fish are present in countries like Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, thriving in major river systems like the Mekong and Chao Phraya.