The Barred minnow (Opsaridium zambezense) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Opsaridium zambezense is a slender African cyprinid from the Zambezi drainage and adjacent waters in southern Africa. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with a few dark cross-bars and reaches about 12 cm. It prefers clear, flowing sections of larger, perennial rivers and often frequents pools below rocky rapids, but also calm, vegetated water. The species lives in schools over sandy bottoms and feeds on aquatic larvae, insects, shrimps and small crustaceans. It spawns in spring and summer and is of limited local fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barred minnow?
The Barred minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Barred minnow live?
The Barred minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Barred minnow get?
The Barred minnow grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Barred minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Barred minnow is harmless to humans.
Is the Barred minnow edible?
The Barred minnow is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Opsaridium
More from the family Cyprinidae
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