Fin's Fish Guide
The Azraq toothcarp (Aphanius sirhani) is a fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Azraq toothcarp is a small egg-laying killifish native only to the Azraq oasis in the desert of Jordan. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a stocky body; males are blue-grey with pale crossbars, females plainly spotted. It lives in springs and marshes and eats algae, small invertebrate life and detritus. Because of the drying of the oasis the species is critically endangered and partly dependent on recovery programmes. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Azraq toothcarp?
The Azraq toothcarp is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Endemic little desert-oasis fish; critically endangered
Where does the Azraq toothcarp live?
The Azraq toothcarp is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Jordan (Azraq oasis)
How big does the Azraq toothcarp get?
The Azraq toothcarp grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Azraq toothcarp dangerous to humans?
No, the Azraq toothcarp is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Azraq toothcarp edible?
The Azraq toothcarp is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aphanius
More from the family Cyprinodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Azraq toothcarp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Azraq toothcarp is one of 12,519 species in the app.