The Melon barb (Desmopuntius johorensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The striped barb is a small cyprinid from oxygen-poor peat-swamp and forest-stream water of peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, silvery to yellowish body with a few dark longitudinal stripes. It schools in soft, acidic, tea-coloured water and feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae, algae and detritus. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Melon barb?
The Melon barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Melon barb live?
The Melon barb lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Melon barb get?
The Melon barb grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Melon barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Melon barb is harmless to humans.
Is the Melon barb edible?
The Melon barb is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Desmopuntius
More from the family Cyprinidae
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