Fin's Fish Guide
The African minnow (Chelaethiops minutus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The African minnow is a small cyprinid (Cyprinidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species is slender and silvery and lives pelagically in large schools in the open water layers of the lake. Notably, it feeds on wind-blown insects that fall onto the water surface, which allows it to inhabit the open water. It forms an important prey fish for larger predators in the lake. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African minnow?
The African minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Lake Tanganyika endemic that eats wind-blown insects fallen on the surface.
Where does the African minnow live?
The African minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; open pelagic water layers.
How big does the African minnow get?
The African minnow grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the African minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the African minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African minnow edible?
The African minnow is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chelaethiops
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the African minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.