Fin's Fish Guide
The Bitschumbi lampeye (Lacustricola vitschumbaensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Procatopodidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The Vitschumba lampeye is a small killifish of the African lampeye family (Procatopodidae) from East Africa. The species grows to only a few centimetres and owes its name to the shiny, light-reflecting upper rim of the eye, characteristic of lampeyes. It inhabits swamps, shallows and shore regions of Lakes Edward and George, and the shore regions and papyrus swamps in the northern part of Lake Victoria. Unlike many killifishes it is not a seasonal fish. It hunts small zooplankton and insects just below the surface. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bitschumbi lampeye?
The Bitschumbi lampeye has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glossy light-reflecting eye rim (lampeye); surface hunter, not a seasonal killifish.
Where does the Bitschumbi lampeye live?
The Bitschumbi lampeye lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Africa; Lakes Edward and George and the north of Lake Victoria.
How big does the Bitschumbi lampeye get?
The Bitschumbi lampeye grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Bitschumbi lampeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Bitschumbi lampeye is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bitschumbi lampeye edible?
The Bitschumbi lampeye is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lacustricola
More from the family Procatopodidae
Want the complete picture on the Bitschumbi lampeye?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bitschumbi lampeye is one of 12,519 species in the app.