Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue lampeye (Hylopanchax stictopleuron) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
Hylopanchax stictopleuron, the blue lampeye, is a very small killifish from the Central African rainforests. The species reaches only a few centimetres and has a slender body with a bluish sheen, fine spots on the flank and the shining upper eye characteristic of lampeyes. It inhabits small, shaded forest brooks and streams, usually of the black-water type, under dense canopy. It is not a seasonal killifish. The diet consists of small zooplankton and insect larvae at the water surface. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is mainly of interest for the biodiversity of rainforest habitats.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue lampeye?
The Blue lampeye has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern. Glossy upper part of the eye (lampeye); bluish sheen, inhabitant of blackwater forest streams.
Where does the Blue lampeye live?
The Blue lampeye lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Shady forest streams of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Blue lampeye get?
The Blue lampeye grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Blue lampeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue lampeye is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue lampeye edible?
The Blue lampeye is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue lampeye?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue lampeye is one of 12,519 species in the app.