(P2) Albino Tinfoil Barb (Barbonymus schwanenfeldii – Albino Variant) (≈2+ inches)

Description

Albino Tinfoil Barb (Barbonymus schwanenfeldii – Albino Variant)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Barbonymus schwanenfeldii
Common Names: Albino Tinfoil Barb, Albino Barb, Tinfoil Barb
Family: Cyprinidae (Barbs)
Order: Cypriniformes
Origin: Southeast Asia — rivers, streams, and floodplains of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand
Size: Up to 14 inches (35 cm) in captivity; can grow larger in the wild
Lifespan: 8 – 12 years
Tank Zone: Mid to upper-level dweller; active and social

🌊 Water Parameters

TDS: 150 – 300 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Large, laterally compressed body with white to pinkish albino coloration, bright red fins, and reflective silver scales; elongated and strong swimmer.
Behavior: Peaceful but active and fast-moving; best kept in schools.
Swimming Style: Constant mid-to-upper level swimmer; requires ample open space.
Unique Feature: Hardy species with striking albino coloration; excellent display fish.
Nature: Social and moderately active; thrives in groups and makes a lively addition to community tanks.

🍽️ Food

Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flake and pellet foods, live/frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), and vegetable matter
Feeding: 1–2 times daily in moderate portions
Tip: Offer a varied diet to enhance growth and color

🛠️ Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 125 gallons (470 L) for adults; larger preferred for long-term health
Filtration: Strong filtration with good water flow; produces moderate waste
Decor: Open swimming areas with few obstacles; smooth substrate to prevent injury
Lighting: Moderate
Water Change: 25–30% weekly to maintain optimal water quality

👥 Social Behavior

Minimum Group Size: 3 or more (schooling species)
Tank Mates: Other large, peaceful freshwater fish
Avoid: Very small or slow-moving fish; aggressive species

✅ Do’s

• Keep in groups for social behavior and reduced stress

• Provide ample swimming space

• Maintain clean water and good filtration

• Offer varied diet to maintain health and vibrant fins

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep in small tanks — will outgrow quickly

• Don’t house with small or delicate fish

• Don’t ignore water quality or tank cleanliness

⭐ Quick Tips

The Albino Tinfoil Barb is a striking, hardy, and active freshwater fish, perfect for large community aquariums.
Best suited for schools of 3 or more, it displays energetic swimming behavior and adds a vivid, eye-catching presence to the tank.
Ideal for aquarists seeking a social, medium-to-large, and visually impressive barb.