Fin's Fish Guide
The Ansorge's characin (Neolebias ansorgii) is a freshwater fish of the family Distichodontidae that grows up to 3 cm.
West and Central Africa, in slow-flowing and still fresh water of forest streams and swamps.
Description
Ansorge's characin is a small African characin of the family Distichodontidae reaching at most about 3 cm. The stout little body is brownish with a green iridescent lengthwise band, and in breeding dress males colour a warm red-brown with red fins. The species lives in schools in slow-flowing and still fresh water of forest streams, pools and swamps in West and Central Africa, often among dense water plants. It feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae and algae. In the rainy season it lays its eggs among fine plants. Because of its colour and modest size it is a popular fish for the planted community aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ansorge's characin?
The Ansorge's characin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Small, colourful African characin; in courtship colours red-brown with a green shiny longitudinal band.
Where does the Ansorge's characin live?
The Ansorge's characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. West and Central Africa, in slow-flowing and still fresh water of forest streams and swamps.
How big does the Ansorge's characin get?
The Ansorge's characin grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Ansorge's characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Ansorge's characin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ansorge's characin edible?
The Ansorge's characin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neolebias
More from the family Distichodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Ansorge's characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ansorge's characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.