Description
Scientific Name: Barbonymus schwanenfeldii
Common Name: Tinfoil Barb
Adult Size: Up to 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
Life Expectancy: 8–10 years, potentially longer with excellent care
Habitat: Native to rivers, streams, and flooded forests in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Laos). Prefers fast-moving, oxygen-rich freshwater environments
Tank Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons (473 liters) or larger for a group
Ideal Temperature: 72–77°F (22–25°C)
pH Range: 6.5–7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (5–15 dGH)
Temperament: Peaceful but active, and schooling—should be kept in groups of 5 or more. Can be intimidating to smaller or slow-moving fish due to their size and energy
Diet & Nutrition
Omnivorous: Yes
Diet: Accepts a wide variety of foods including flakes, pellets, blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini), and live/frozen protein sources like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia
