Johnston's Barbel
NameJohnston's Barbel
Scientific NameLabeobarbus johnstonii
Common NamesJohnston's Barbel, Johnston's Labeobarbus
FamilyCyprinidae
OriginAfrica, Lake Malawi Basin, Malawi, Tanzania, Mozambique
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)120
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range7.5-8.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge African Cichlids (non-mbuna or robust mbuna), Other large African Barbs, Synodontis Catfish, Other large, robust freshwater fish
Description
The Johnston's Barbel is a large, robust freshwater fish native to the Lake Malawi basin in Africa. It is an omnivorous species that can reach up to 12 inches in length, requiring a spacious aquarium. While generally peaceful with similarly sized fish, its large size means it can predate on very small tankmates.
