Enteromius argenteus (Günther, 1868)
Rosefin barb
photo by South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity

Family:  Cyprinidae (Minnows or carps), subfamily: Smiliogastrinae
Max. size:  19.7 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater,
Distribution:  Africa: Pongolo and Incomati rivers of South Africa (Ref. 2801, 52193) as well as Cunene and Cuanza rivers of Angola (Ref. 2801, 120641). Also in the Catumbela River in Angola (Ref. 11970). Similar to, and possibly even the same species as the silver barb, Enteromius choloensis (Ref. 7248) or juveniles of Enteromius mattozi (Ref. 52193, 120641).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 3-3; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7-8; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 8-8. Description: Mouth with 2 pairs of well-developed barbels (Ref. 52193). Dorsal fin with 3 spines and 7-8 soft rays; anal fin with 3 unbranched and 5 branched rays (Ref. 52193). Scales 27-32 in lateral line, 14 around caudal peduncle (Ref. 52193).

Colouration: Generally a silvery fish, with light olive dorsal surface, a vague stripe along caudal peduncle, fins orange-red in mature specimens (Ref. 52193).

Biology:  Inhabits pools and riffles in clear rocky streams (Ref. 52193). It feeds on aquatic and adult flying insects and takes trout flies (Ref. 7248, 52193).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 01 March 2007 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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