Description

Tinfoil Barb (Barbonymus schwanenfeldii)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Barbonymus schwanenfeldii

• Family: Cyprinidae

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Sumatra, Borneo, Malaysia)

• Size: 12 – 14 inches (30 – 35 cm)

• Lifespan: 8 – 10 years (sometimes longer)

• Tank Zone: Mid & bottom dwellers

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 150 – 300 ppm

• pH: 6.5 – 7.5

• Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

• Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Large, shiny silver body resembling “tinfoil,” with red/orange fins.

• Active, fast swimmers; need big tanks with open space.

• Peaceful but can accidentally intimidate or outcompete smaller fish due to size.

• Schooling fish – look stunning in groups.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous.

• Diet: Flakes, pellets, live/frozen food (bloodworms, shrimp, insects), blanched veggies (spinach, zucchini, peas).

• Feeding: 2–3 times daily; needs variety to stay healthy.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 75–100 gallons (they grow very large).

• Filtration: Strong filter with good oxygenation (they are messy eaters).

• Decor: Open swimming space, driftwood, hardy plants (delicate ones may be eaten).

• Water Change: 30–40% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: 5–6 (schooling species; fewer may stress them).

• Tank Mates: Other large, peaceful fish (Silver Dollar, Bala Shark, Plecos, large Gouramis, Oscar in big tanks).

• Avoid: Very small fish (they may be mistaken for food), aggressive predators.

✅ Do’s

• Keep in a very large tank or indoor pond.

• Provide strong filtration and plenty of swimming room.

• Keep them in groups for natural behavior.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep in small tanks – they grow over 12 inches.

• Don’t mix with tiny community fish (risk of being eaten).

• Don’t overcrowd – they need space and oxygen.

⭐ Quick Tips

• Striking, active, and hardy barb – but only for large aquariums.

• Great schooling display fish when kept in groups.

• Best suited for experienced keepers with big tanks or ponds.