Fin's Fish Guide
The Amazon leaffish (Monocirrhus polyacanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Polycentridae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Amazon leaffish is a leaffish (Polycentridae) from South America. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, brown-mottled body and a chin barbel, making it resemble a dead, floating leaf. With this camouflage it stalks prey unseen and then shoots out its enormously protrusible mouth to suck up small fishes in one gulp. It lives in quiet, shaded parts of rivers and streams. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Amazon leaffish?
The Amazon leaffish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Mimics a dead floating leaf as camouflage; engulfs prey with a hugely extendable mouth.
Where does the Amazon leaffish live?
The Amazon leaffish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America; calm, shaded parts of rivers and streams.
How big does the Amazon leaffish get?
The Amazon leaffish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Amazon leaffish dangerous to humans?
No, the Amazon leaffish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Amazon leaffish edible?
The Amazon leaffish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Polycentridae
Want the complete picture on the Amazon leaffish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Amazon leaffish is one of 12,519 species in the app.