Quick Overview
The Mad Barb (Leptobarbus hoevenii), famously known in Southeast Asia as the Sultan Fish or Golden Shark, is a large, pelagic river fish. They earned the nickname “Mad Barb” in the wild due to their erratic swimming behavior after eating intoxicating seeds that fall into the rivers. In the aquarium, they are prized for their sleek, torpedo-like bodies, large silver-gold scales, and contrasting red fins. These are incredibly active schooling fish, making them a fantastic and energetic addition to large predator or “monster fish” community tanks.
Tank Requirements & Local Care Tips
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Care Level: Intermediate (Due to tank size requirements)
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Minimum Tank Size: 150+ Gallons (These fish grow very fast and can eventually reach over 20 inches in length; they must be kept in schools to feel secure).
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Water Temperature: 22°C to 28°C
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Temperament: Peaceful but active (Keep with other large, robust fish like Tinfoil Barbs, Silver Dollars, or large peaceful Cichlids; small fish will be eaten).
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Bacolod Hobbyist Tip: Mad Barbs are notoriously powerful swimmers and phenomenal jumpers. If you are setting up a monster tank here in Bacolod, a heavy, tightly secured lid is completely non-negotiable! They also require pristine water quality with a strong current to mimic their natural river habitats. Stop by our shop to check out our heavy-duty canister filters, high-output powerheads, and premium floating pellets to keep your Mad Barbs well-fed and healthy!
