Gold Tinfoil Barb – Barbonymus schwanenfeldii

Gold Tinfoil Barb – Barbonymus schwanenfeldii

The Gold Tinfoil Barb (Barbonymus schwanenfeldii) is a large, energetic schooling fish known for its brilliant metallic gold body and reflective scales. This impressive freshwater species adds bold movement and color to spacious community aquariums.

Gold Tinfoil Barbs are peaceful, hardy, and highly active swimmers. They thrive in well-oxygenated aquariums with open swimming areas and strong filtration. Perfect for larger tanks, they create a dazzling display when kept in schools of five or more.

Features:

• 🐟 Scientific Name: Barbonymus schwanenfeldii
• 🌎 Origin: Southeast Asia
• 🌈 Coloration: Metallic gold body with shimmering silver undertones and red-tinged fins
• 💧 Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
• 🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – accepts flakes, pellets, vegetables, and frozen foods
• 🪸 Tank Level: Mid to bottom

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• KH: 5–12 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons (for adult group)
• Environment: Spacious tank with open areas for swimming and strong filtration

Behavior & Compatibility:
Peaceful but active. Best kept with similarly sized fish such as Silver Dollars, larger Barbs, Clown Loaches, or Plecos. Avoid small or slow-moving tankmates that may be startled by their activity level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How big do Gold Tinfoil Barbs get?
A: They can reach up to 12–14 inches as adults, so a large aquarium is essential.

Q: Are Gold Tinfoil Barbs peaceful?
A: Yes — they’re active but generally peaceful schooling fish.

Q: How many should I keep together?
A: Keep groups of 5 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.

Q: What do they eat?
A: They’re omnivores — offer flakes, pellets, veggies, and frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

Q: Can they live with smaller fish?
A: They’re peaceful but may accidentally eat very small fish due to their size. Best kept with medium to large community fish.