barbel

The term "barbel" can refer to two things: a type of freshwater fish and a physical feature on certain fish.

Fish Species

Barbels are freshwater fish belonging to the genus Barbus within the carp family, Cyprinidae. They are found in Europe, Africa, and Asia. These fish typically have one or more pairs of barbels, which are fleshy, finger-like projections near their mouths. Species vary greatly in size, from about 1 to 2 inches to over 6 feet long, like the mahseer. Some barbel species are endangered. The European barbel (B. barbus) is known for its thick-lipped mouth and four barbels, used to find food on the river bottom. Many African and Asian species are popular in aquariums, such as the cherry barb and Sumatra barb.1

Anatomical Feature

Barbels are also slender, tactile processes found on the lips or snout of some bottom-feeding fish, like minnows, loaches, and catfishes. These projections are sensitive to touch and have taste buds, helping fish locate and select food.23