Description
Scientific Name: Leptobarbus hoevenii (Albino variant) Common Names: Albino Cigar Shark, Albino Mad Barb, Sultan Fish, Hoven’s Carp Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, and Sumatra)
Physical Characteristics
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Body Shape: They have a long, cylindrical, “cigar-like” body that is built for speed.
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Coloration: The Albino variety lacks dark pigment, resulting in a flesh-colored, pearly white, or golden body. The eyes are a distinct bright red.
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Fins: The fins are typically a translucent pink or red. The tail is deeply forked, which helps them sprint through the water.
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Size: Warning: These fish grow much larger than people expect. In the wild, they can reach 3 feet, but in aquariums, they commonly grow to 12 to 18 inches (30–45 cm).
Behavior and Temperament
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The “Mad” Barb: They are called “Mad Barbs” because they are extremely active and can be skittish. When spooked, they will dart across the tank at lightning speed, often crashing into the glass or decorations.
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Jumping: They are expert jumpers. You must have a heavy, tight-fitting lid on your aquarium, or they will eventually jump out.
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Temperament: They are generally peaceful but very boisterous. They will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouth (like Neon Tetras). They are best kept with other large, robust fish like Oscars, Tinfoil Barbs, or large Cichlids.
Care and Habitat
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Tank Size: Because of their potential size and swimming speed, they need a massive tank—minimum 125 gallons for an adult school.
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Diet: They are greedy omnivores. They will eat anything: pellets, vegetables, floating sticks, and even small live fish. They are often used as “dither fish” in large predator tanks because they are fast enough to avoid being eaten.
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Decor: Keep decorations to a minimum or secure them well, as these fish can knock over unsecured rocks during their “mad” dashing moments.
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