Barbel (fish)

Barbel are a group of ray-finned freshwater fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae. The name "barbel" derives from the presence of one or more prominent barbels, which are fleshy, whisker-like appendages located near the mouth. These barbels are sensory organs used to detect food items in the substrate, particularly in murky or fast-flowing waters.

Barbel are typically bottom-dwelling fish, often found in rivers and streams with gravel or rocky bottoms. They are well-adapted to turbulent environments, possessing streamlined bodies and strong fins that allow them to maintain their position in the current. Their diet primarily consists of benthic invertebrates, such as insect larvae, crustaceans, and mollusks, which they locate using their barbels and consume by rooting around in the sediment.

Several species of fish are commonly referred to as "barbel," with the Barbus genus containing many prominent examples. Distribution varies significantly depending on the specific species, but barbel are generally found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. The common barbel (Barbus barbus) is a well-known species in Europe.

Barbel populations are susceptible to various threats, including habitat loss due to dam construction, river channelization, and pollution. Overfishing can also impact barbel populations, as they are often targeted by anglers. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the long-term survival of these unique and ecologically important fish.