Tinfoil Barb

Barbonymus schwanenfeldii

BarbsIntermediate
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Species Details

Tinfoil Barbs are large, active schooling fish that require very spacious aquariums. Despite their size, they are generally peaceful but may eat very small tank mates. They are excellent jumpers requiring secure tank covers.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size25-35 cm (10-14 inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan8-10 years
Tank Size568+ litres (150+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
22-25°C (72-77°F)
pH Level
6.0-7.0
Hardness
5-12 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Tinfoil Barb
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Danios & Minnows

Various Danio, Devario species

Cyprinids
Size:3-10 cm (1-4 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Gouramis

Various Trichogaster, Colisa species

Anabantoids
Size:5-25 cm (2-10 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Large active barb reaching 35+ cm in aquariums

Requires very large tanks due to adult size

Peaceful despite large size

Excellent jumpers requiring secure lids

Native to Southeast Asian river systems

Active schooling fish in large groups

Fast swimmers requiring horizontal space

Hardy once established in proper conditions

May eat small tank mates when adult

Popular in large display aquariums

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution6
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size568+ litres (150+ gallons)
Temperature22-25°C (72-77°F)
pH6.0-7.0
Hardness5-12 dGH

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