Fin's Fish Guide
The American brook lamprey (Lethenteron appendix) is a freshwater fish of the family Petromyzontidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The American brook lamprey is a lamprey of the family Petromyzontidae, an eel-shaped, jawless animal from eastern North America. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a naked, eel-shaped body with a round oral disc instead of jaws. It is tied to stable, cool, high-quality freshwater habitats. Notably this is a non-parasitic lamprey: the larvae (ammocoetes) live for years as filter feeders in river sediment, but the adults do not feed and live only briefly to spawn, after which they die. Unlike parasitic lampreys it therefore does not attach to fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the American brook lamprey?
The American brook lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Non-parasitic, jawless brook lamprey; adults do not feed and live only briefly in order to spawn.
Where does the American brook lamprey live?
The American brook lamprey lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern North America; stable, cool, high-quality streams and rivers.
How big does the American brook lamprey get?
The American brook lamprey grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the American brook lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the American brook lamprey is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the American brook lamprey edible?
The American brook lamprey is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lethenteron
More from the family Petromyzontidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the American brook lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.