Hampala Barb

The hampala barb lives in the rivers and lakes of Southeast Asia and is a true predator, something rarely seen among cyprinids. It is recognized by its large mouth and big silver scales; juveniles show a thick black vertical bar running down from below the dorsal fin and orange-red, black-edged tail lobes. It is a favorite species for sport fishing and food fishing in the region. Adults exceed 50 cm, and it grows very fast.

• At least 1500 liters and 250 cm in length for one adult.
• 24–27°C; very powerful filtration, high oxygen levels and flow.
• A simple layout with roots and large rocks; plenty of open swimming space.
• It jumps powerfully when hunting and when startled; a heavy lid is essential.

Carnivorous; in the wild it feeds on fish and large invertebrates. In the aquarium it is fed predator pellets, frozen fish meat, mysis and large shrimp. Feeding live fish is not recommended because of the risk of introducing disease.

Predatory: it sees any fish that fits in its mouth as prey. It is generally not aggressive toward fish of similar size, but it is rough and fast during feeding.

Good companions: in a very large tank, large fish that do not fit in its mouth: large plecos, big catfish, giant barbs.

Avoid: any fish that could fit in its mouth, shrimp, and slow, shy species.