Barbonymus altus (Redtailed Tinfoil Barb)

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Similar to the more widely traded tinfoil barb, but with a deeper body and bright red fins. The red tail is especially distinctive. Although not quite so large as the tinfoil barb, at an adult size of 20 cm this fish is still quite a handful, and a school of these fish will need a spacious aquarium.

Fish information (behaviour and breeding):

A schooling fish, this species must not be kept alone. Ideally, keep at least 5 specimens. As with all barbs, this fish is omnivorous, and will eat insects, crustaceans, spinach, algae, flakes, and pellets. It will also eat very small fish. Does not harm plants, but given its size, best kept with sturdy species such as Amazon swords. An active fish that eats a lot -- good filtration is essential!

Has not been bred in captivity.

Family Group:	Barbs
Distribution	Thailand, Vietnam
Temperature	22-25C
Size	20 cm
Water Parameters	Soft, acidic water preferred, but adaptable.
Water PH	-

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Useful sources of information:

For a well illustrated and detailed reference guide on this and many other fish, consider the Baensch Aquarium Atlases. Volume 1 contains all the common species, and later volumes cover more unusual species. You can buy these books here.

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