Barotse Barb

The Barotse floodplain of western Zambia is one of Africa's great seasonal wetlands, and Barbus barotseensis is a characteristic resident of its slow-flowing channels and flooded plains. It is a medium-sized, deep-bodied barb with a bright silver base colour and a prominent dark caudal peduncle spot. During spawning condition, males take on a subtle golden flush.

In the aquarium this species is easygoing and hardy, adapting to a range of water conditions. It is most impressive when kept in schools of six or more in a spacious tank with open swimming space. A gentle to moderate current, fine sand or gravel substrate, and broad-leaved plants create a natural setting.

Like most African barbs, it is an omnivore accepting virtually any standard aquarium food. It makes a good dither fish for larger African cichlid setups or a centrepiece schooling species in dedicated African community aquariums.

Water: 20–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate hardness (GH 5–18). Tank: 100 L minimum; open swimming space, sandy substrate, gentle to moderate current. Feeding: Omnivore; flake, pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, occasional vegetable matter. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; raise temperature slightly and offer fine plants to trigger spawning. Compatibility: Peaceful; suitable with tetras, other African barbs, and medium-sized African cichlids.