How to Identify Striped Dwarf Barb

To identify Striped Dwarf Barb (Puntius amphibius), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-yellow to olive-brown body, often with a distinct dark lateral stripe extending from the operculum to the caudal peduncle. Males exhibit more intense reddish coloration, especially on the fins and body, during spawning. Fins are typically hyaline (clear) to yellowish, with some red pigmentation in males.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent dark lateral stripe, Small size, typically not exceeding 6 cm, Absence of barbels, Reddish coloration in breeding males

Dorsal fin

Single, short-based dorsal fin with 3-4 unbranched and 8 branched rays. The last unbranched ray is often ossified and serrated.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin with rounded lobes.

Pectoral fin

Small, clear pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are also small and clear, sometimes with a reddish tint in males. Anal fin is short with 3 unbranched and 5 branched rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size

   Small fish, rarely exceeding 6 cm (2.4 inches) in total length.

2. 2

   Lateral Stripe

   A distinct, dark, horizontal stripe running along the flank from the gill cover to the base of the caudal fin.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Silvery-yellow to olive-brown body. Look for reddish tints, especially in males, on the body and fins.

4. 4

   Barbels

   Absence of barbels, which distinguishes it from some other Puntius species.

5. 5

   Fin Structure

   Observe the dorsal fin, which often has a strong, serrated last unbranched ray.

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