Often referred to as Chinese Barbs, Gold Barbs are found in Taiwan and Vietnam as well as parts of southwestern China and northern Laos. These fish are found most often in tributaries and quickly-flowing streams though, in Vietnam, they have been found in small lakes as well. Gold Barbs have long, medium-sized bodies with arched backs and Barbels on the upper jaw. The bodies of Gold Barbs are typically light or reddish brown with a metallic gold or brassy sheen. Females of the species are often duller in coloration than the males.