Cigar Shark (Mad Barb)

The Cigar Shark (Mad Barb), scientifically known as Leptobarbus hoevenii, belongs to the Cyprinids family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 60 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and surface zones of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.

To thrive, the Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 1000 litres and a tank length of at least 240 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 23°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–8 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.

The Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Standard (Adult) and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.

When setting up an aquarium for the Cigar Shark (Mad Barb), a high water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and surface zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline and open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.

Classified as mostly peaceful, the Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, shy or slow-feeding tankmates may be outcompeted at feeding time, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and surface zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.

Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide a keeper who can commit to a proper group of at least 3. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially smooth gravel.

The most common mistake is buying Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) for looks first and only later discovering how its adult size, behavior, or bioload changes the whole tank plan. Another frequent problem is underestimating its social needs. A token pair or trio often behaves very differently from a real group.

The Cigar Shark (Mad Barb) is a predatory species that will readily consume small fish, so nano or bite-sized tankmates should be avoided and is an aggressive eater that may prevent timid tankmates from getting enough food, so target feeding or simultaneous feeding at opposite ends of the tank can help.