Tinfoil Barb 5cm

Tinfoil Barb

When it comes to adding large schooling fish and activity to large aquariums the choices can be fairly limited as most fish may be somewhat predatory in nature or could be aggressive to one another. The usual contenders on the list include silver dollars or silver sharks however a fantastic alternative is the Tinfoil barb. This gentle giant is a very great option as they grow to a large size of around 35 cm, have great contrasting colors, and are a very affordable option for stocking aquariums. Tinfoil barbs get their name due to the characteristic metallic silver as their base color.

Their large scales almost glimmer under aquarium lighting and their fins have a contrast of orange and black which really makes the fish as a whole stand out. Their simplicity in color and large size makes them a spectacle in large aquariums and an extremely popular fish in other parts of the world, however in Australia these fish have been fairly recent additions to the aquarium hobby. Tinfoil barbs much like other barbs are schooling fish that is always recommended to be kept in groups at a minimum of three or above.

Tinfoil barbs are also super peaceful fish, they can be kept with both medium-sized community fish and are frequently kept with larger predatory fish such as peacock bass or Oscars. Though these tank mates might be aggressive the large size of the tinfoil barb often prevents any aggressive display. Tinfoil barbs aren't the easiest fish to breed in captivity as males and females have no differentiating factors and their large size makes it difficult to replicate spawning conditions. These majestic fish originate from Asia much like other barbs. 

Tank Recommendations for your Tinfoil Barbs

Being one of the largest community fish available the tinfoil barb will need a very large aquarium. As a minimum, they would need an aquarium which is around 680 liters (180 Gallons) which is at least 6 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 2 feet tall. This ensures there is ample swimming space for these fish and the opportunity for other tank mates. Tinfoil barbs are herbivorous fish in nature meaning that they will eat most if not all aquarium plants however emersed growing plants and certain fern species can have great success. Tinfoil barbs are not concerned about hiding places or cover like caves because of their almost pelagic nature, the same goes for the substrate in the aquarium meaning that the scape can be very creative with these fish. The only thing is to ensure they have enough open space for their active nature.  They are also soft water fish meaning they require a low PH which is recommended to be 6.0 - 7.0.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Tinfoil barb is a fairly peaceful fish that can be kept with a wide range of community fish and larger predator fish. The only concern may be extremely small species that could fit in their mouth. 

Usually Compatible

Uaru, severum, Torpedo barbs, black widow tetras, Corydoras, silver dollars, and other medium growing community fish.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger semi-aggressive species such as peacock bass, Oscars, and fire mouths.

Rarely Compatible

Extremely aggressive species such as Dovii cichlids and nano species such as neon tetras, endlers, and shrimp

Feeding your Gold Rams

Tinfoil barbs are a very easy fish to feed as they will take to any type of food provided ranging from frozen foods to flake. The ideal diet would be a plant-based slow sinking pellet which is supplemented with blanched veggies and the occasional treat of frozen brine shrimp or bloodworms.