Longnose Barbel (Hemibarbus longirostris)

Family: Cyprinidae

Longnose Barbel — a Cyprinidae from China, calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Reaches 35.2–51.7 cm; small groups recommended. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
35.2–51.7 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life
Origin
China

Species overview

Hemibarbus longirostris is a Cyprinidae from China. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Plan on 35.2–51.7 cm of adult fish at 18–26 °C. Related profiles: Hemibarbus labeo, Hemibarbus maculatus, Hemibarbus umbrifer.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Small groups recommended
Diet
Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament
Avoid keeping with
  • Fin-nippers — Constant stress

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs

Frequently asked questions

Is Longnose Barbel easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Longnose Barbel need?

Set the heater to 18–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Longnose Barbel get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 35.2–51.7 cm; it is active throughout the water column. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Longnose Barbel eat?

Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Longnose Barbel live with other fish?

Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life; small groups recommended. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament. Keep away from Fin-nippers — Constant stress.

Where does Longnose Barbel come from?

Native to China, where it lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Longnose Barbel jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Longnose Barbel breed?

Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs. Males often slimmer and more colourful.