How to Identify Smallmouth Yellowfish

To identify Smallmouth Yellowfish (Barbus hospes), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically olive-green to brownish, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Fins are often yellowish, especially the caudal and anal fins. Juveniles may exhibit faint vertical bars.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Relatively small, subterminal mouth with thick lips., Two pairs of barbels, with the anterior pair being shorter than the posterior pair., Robust, somewhat compressed body., Large, cycloid scales., Lateral line complete and slightly decurved.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 3-4 unbranched and 8-9 branched rays. The last unbranched ray is strong and serrated posteriorly.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin with pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short, reaching about halfway to the pelvic fin origin.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins originate below or slightly posterior to the dorsal fin origin. Anal fin has 3 unbranched and 5-6 branched rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth size and position

   The relatively small, subterminal mouth is a key distinguishing feature, differentiating it from other larger-mouthed Labeobarbus species in the region.

2. 2

   Barbels

   Presence of two pairs of barbels, with the posterior pair being noticeably longer than the anterior pair.

3. 3

   Dorsal fin spine

   The last unbranched ray of the dorsal fin is strong and serrated along its posterior edge.

4. 4

   Body shape and coloration

   Robust, torpedo-shaped body with olive-green to brownish dorsal coloration and yellowish fins.

Explore Smallmouth Yellowfish