Tinfoil Barb

Tinfoil Barb (Barbonymus Schwanenfeldii)

The Tinfoil Barb is a magnificent and engaging addition to your freshwater aquarium. These captivating fish are known for their shimmering, silver-scaled bodies, which reflect light like a piece of tin foil, giving them their distinct name. Tinfoil Barbs also have the ability to change color depending on their mood and surroundings. They display a bright, silvery hue when content, while a darker coloration may indicate stress or an attempt to blend in with their environment.

Tinfoil Barbs are active and social fish that do best in groups of 5 or more which creates a dazzling display of synchronized swimming. They are relatively peaceful but can become aggressive towards smaller fish or delicate slow-swimming species. Tinfoil Barbs can grow up to an impressive 14 inches in length, making them a standout feature in larger aquariums.

Tank Habitat and Care:
As large, active swimmers, Tinfoil Barbs require ample space to thrive. A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended, with even larger tanks preferred for community aquariums. The ideal environment includes plenty of hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, robust plants, and open swimming areas for them to roam freely. Maintain a pH level of 6.0-7.5, a hardness range of 5-20 dGH, and a temperature of 72-77°F (22-25°C) to ensure optimal conditions for your Tinfoil Barbs.

Diet:
Tinfoil Barbs are omnivorous and have a strong preference for a varied diet. Provide them with a balanced mix of high-quality pellet or flake food supplemented with vegetable matter like spinach, lettuce, and zucchini. Frozen or live foods, such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia, can also be included to ensure proper nutrition and maintain their vibrant colors.

To learn more about this fish, be sure to check out the Additional Information tab.