Fin's Fish Guide
The Buchholz's minnow (Raiamas buchholzi) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
Description
Buchholz's minnow is a slender, silvery African cyprinid of the family Danionidae reaching about 14 cm. The elongate body bears rows of bluish crossbars on the flank and has a large, terminal mouth; the shape betrays a fast, active swimmer. The species lives in schools in clear, flowing rivers and creeks of West and Central Africa. As a surface hunter it darts at insects that fall onto the water, supplemented with small fish and crustaceans. In the rainy season it spawns. Because of its slender build and hunting behaviour it resembles a small predator; it is a common species of African streams and a prey fish for larger species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Buchholz's minnow?
The Buchholz's minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Slender, silver African cyprinid with rows of bluish transverse blotches and a large, terminal mouth; an active surface hunter.
Where does the Buchholz's minnow live?
The Buchholz's minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
How big does the Buchholz's minnow get?
The Buchholz's minnow grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Buchholz's minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Buchholz's minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Buchholz's minnow edible?
The Buchholz's minnow is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Raiamas
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Buchholz's minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Buchholz's minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.