Lemon Fin Barb

About

Found in forested, medium-sized streams across the Mekong, Chao Phraya, and Maeklong basins as well as the Malay Peninsula, this robust barb, known in trade as Hypsibarbus wetmorei, is worth a second look before purchasing, because what gets sold under that name is sometimes actually its close relative H. vernayi. The easiest way to tell them apart is fin color: H. wetmorei carries orange to red on its pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins, while H. vernayi runs yellow. Both share the characteristic reticulated scale pattern, with dark scale margins giving the body a net-like look, and both sport the extended, somewhat falcate fin tips typical of the genus. This is a genuinely large fish that can push past a foot and a half, and it's a schooling species that really should be kept in groups of six or more. That combination of size and social needs means a spacious setup is non-negotiable. Behaviorally it isn't aggressive in the traditional sense, but its constant movement and vigorous approach to feeding can stress out smaller or more timid tankmates, and it will treat genuinely small fish as a snack. Given adequate room and company, though, it is a hardy, forgiving fish with a lifespan that can stretch close to two decades.