The barred flagtail is a small species, with five characteristic dark stripes on its forked tail that can sometimes be traced across its silver body. It has two small spines on its gill covers which deter some predators from eating it.
It is common in the waters of KwaZulu-Natal where it feeds on small crustaceans and small fish. Juvenile flagtails can sometimes be seen in shallow tidal pools.
This fish forms tightly packed shoals that regularly travel in lagoons and brackish water.
Barred flagtails are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Grows to 20cm long
Also known as a five-bar flagtail