Tinfoil Bard
(Barbodes schwanefeldi)
 
Range: Southeast Asia

Habitat: Freshwater ponds and rivers

Diet: Worms, fish food, cucumber, some aquatic plants, smaller invertebrates, algae, smaller fish

Identification: Medium to large (9 inches +), flat, silver fish with red fins

Notes: Tinfoil barbs are named for their silver coloration. They are easily recognized for their silver bodies and red fins. Tinfoil barbs are omnivorous and eat a variety of food offered to them including worms, fish food, cucumber, some aquatic plants, smaller invertebrates, algae, and smaller fish. Tinfoil barbs need oxygenated water. Tinfoil barbs are social and will often school tightly. Tinfoil barbs are large and can be aggressive when necessary. They are also very active and quick. Their speed and schooling tendencies allow them to mix with larger fish.  This speed also allows them to get to their food first. Tinfoil barbs love to eat. Tinfoil barbs are kept for their appearance and energy. Tinfoil barbs throw over 2000 eggs.

At The Children’s Museum: The Children’s Museum has Tinfoil barbs in a tank in the entryway.