Fin's Fish Guide
The Flying barb (Esomus danrica) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The flying barb is a small cyprinid from South Asia, occurring in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. The species reaches about 13 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a dark lateral stripe and, characteristically, a pair of very long barbels. It inhabits ponds, weedy ditches and irrigation canals. With its powerful pectoral fins the species can leap from the water and 'glide' short distances over the surface, to which the name refers. The diet consists of insects, small zooplankton and plant matter at the surface.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flying barb?
The Flying barb has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Very long barbels; can leap out of the water and glide short distances over the surface.
Where does the Flying barb live?
The Flying barb lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South Asia, in ponds, ditches and irrigation canals.
How big does the Flying barb get?
The Flying barb grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Flying barb dangerous to humans?
No, the Flying barb is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Flying barb edible?
The Flying barb is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Esomus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Flying barb?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flying barb is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone