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.