Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded lampeye (Aplocheilichthys spilauchen) is a brackish-water fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Brackish coastal waters of West Africa (mangroves, lagoons, estuaries).
Description
Aplocheilichthys spilauchen, the banded lampeye, is a small killifish inhabiting brackish coastal water of West Africa. The species has a slender, elongate body with fine cross-bars and the shining upper eye characteristic of lampeyes, and grows to only a few centimetres. It occurs in coastal swamps, river mouths, lagoons, estuaries and mangrove swamps and only rarely enters pure fresh or marine water. It is not a seasonal killifish. The diet consists of small invertebrates and insects at the water surface. In the aquarium the species is difficult to maintain.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded lampeye?
The Banded lampeye has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Glossy upper part of the eye (lampeye); inhabitant of brackish mangroves and lagoons.
Where does the Banded lampeye live?
The Banded lampeye lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Brackish coastal waters of West Africa (mangroves, lagoons, estuaries).
How big does the Banded lampeye get?
The Banded lampeye grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Banded lampeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded lampeye 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 Banded lampeye edible?
The Banded lampeye 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 Poeciliidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded lampeye is one of 12,519 species in the app.