Redtail Tinfoil Barb 4"

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Barbonymus altus
• Common Name: Redtail Tinfoil Barb
• Adult Size: Typically 8–10 inches (20–25 cm); slightly smaller than Barbonymus schwanenfeldii
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years with proper care
• Habitat: Native to the Mekong and Chao Phraya River basins in Thailand and Laos. Found in rivers, streams, and flooded fields with slow to moderate water flow

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 100+ gallons (378+ liters) for a group
• Ideal Temperature: 72–77°F (22–25°C)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard)
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in groups of 5 or more. Active swimmers can startle smaller, more passive tankmates

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
• Diet: Will accept flakes, pellets, and vegetable matter (blanched spinach, zucchini), as well as occasional live or frozen protein (brine shrimp, bloodworms)

Appearance

• Coloration: Metallic gold body with red or orange-tipped fins and a slight reflective sheen
• Body Shape: Deep-bodied and laterally compressed with a streamlined build
• Fins: Often have orange-red coloration on dorsal, caudal, and anal fins

Distinctive Features

• Smaller and more golden compared to the standard Tinfoil Barb (B. schwanenfeldii)
• Active schooling species that display best coloration in groups
• Hardy and fast-growing, making them popular in large community and display tanks
• Highly reflective scales that shimmer under aquarium lighting