Our Guide To Keeping Tinfoil Barb Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Barbonymus schwanenfeldii
   • Common name: Tinfoil Barb
   • Family: Cyprinidae
   • Origin: Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and Malaysia
   • Adult length: Up to 35 cm
   • Lifespan: 8 to 10 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Tinfoil Barbs need a large tank with a minimum capacity of 300 litres, as they grow quite large.
   • Provide ample open swimming space along with some planted areas. They appreciate hardy plants like Java Fern and Anubias as they may nibble on softer plants.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Tinfoil Barbs prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • They require a strong filtration system due to their messy eating habits and high activity levels. A canister filter or a powerful hang-on-back filter is recommended.

5. Diet:

   • Tinfoil Barbs are omnivores and have a hearty appetite. Offer them a varied diet including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped vegetables.

6. Tank mates:

   • Tinfoil Barbs are peaceful but active fish. They can be kept with other large, peaceful fish species such as other barbs, tetras, danios, and larger rasboras.
   • Avoid keeping them with smaller fish that they may consider prey.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Tinfoil Barbs are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 5 to 6 individuals to thrive.
   • They may display some aggression during feeding or mating, so provide plenty of space and hiding spots to minimize territorial disputes.