Barbonymus altus (Günther 1868)

Broad red distal margin with no black submarginal stripe along each lobe of the caudal fin; red pelvic and anal fins; a black distal blotch on the dorsal fin; the body depth 1.8-2.2 times in standard length (Ref. 27732).

Potamodromous. Migrating within streams, migratory in rivers, e.g. Saliminus, Moxostoma, Labeo. Migrations should be cyclical and predictable and cover more than 100 km.

Effects annual upstream and downstream non-reproductive and reproductive migrations.

Occurs at midwater depths in large and medium-sized rivers and floodplains. Feeds on various plant and animal matter. Commonly found near villages where it feeds on organic detritus disposed of by humans (Ref. 12693). Reported to be occasionally poisonous, causing vomiting, due the fruits it eats (Ref. 12369). Colonizes inundated forests and adults migrate back to the river in October. Young of the year follow thereafter when the water levels recede. Large-sized fish are marketed fresh while smaller ones are used to make prahoc and nuoc mam (Ref. 12693). Popular fish in the aquarium trade where it is sold under the name of "tinfoil barb" (Ref. 12693). Captured from the wild for the ornamental fish trade in Thailand (Ref. 6459). Cultured in floating cages in Viet Nam (Ref. 12693).

fisheries: minor commercial; aquaculture: commercial; aquarium: commercial

The red tailed tinfoil or red tailed tinfoil barb (Barbonymus altus) is a species of freshwater cyprinid fish from South-East Asia. It lives in the Mekong and Chao Phraya river basins.