Description and characteristics
The barbel (Barbus barbus) is a medium-to-large cyprinid with an elongated, fusiform body covered with small scales. It has a downward-facing mouth with two pairs of barbels and a high dorsal fin. Colouring is grey-brown on the back with golden flanks.
Habitat and distribution
It prefers clear, cold, flowing waters with fast currents and stony or sandy bottoms — Danube branches and tributaries. It is a bottom-dwelling species, active especially at night.
Diet and behaviour
It feeds on benthic invertebrates, larvae, worms, molluscs and small fish. The barbels help it detect food on the bottom, where it actively grubs.
Reproduction
Spawning occurs in spring at 10–14°C, with females laying eggs on stony bottoms. The fry grow slowly.
Economic and ecological importance
The barbel has value for sport fishing, appreciated for its resistance on the hook. Ecologically, it contributes to the balance of flowing waters.
Threats and conservation
It is affected by pollution, dams and alteration of bottoms. Protection of clear flowing waters is important.
Fishing and legal minimum size
The barbel is caught with a rod and bottom baits. In the table of minimum legal sizes, the barbel (Barbus barbus) has a minimum legal size of 27 cm.
Conclusion
The barbel is a robust bottom cyprinid characteristic of the flowing waters of the Danube Delta.