Fin's Fish Guide
The Carpathian brook lamprey (Eudontomyzon danfordi) is a freshwater fish of the family Petromyzontidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Fresh water of the Danube basin in the Carpathians, in cool, fast-flowing streams and rivers with gravel and sandy bottoms.
Description
The Carpathian brook lamprey is an eel-shaped, jawless lamprey of the family Petromyzontidae reaching about 30 cm. Instead of jaws it has a round sucking mouth full of horny teeth; behind the head lie seven gill openings, and pectoral and pelvic fins are absent. The species lives in cool, fast-flowing streams and rivers of the Danube drainage in the Carpathians. The worm-like larvae (called ammocoetes) live buried in the bottom for years, filtering organic matter. Unlike many brook lampreys the adult Carpathian lamprey is parasitic: with its sucking mouth it rasps tissue and blood from fish. In spring the adults spawn on gravel, after which they die. Because of its hidden lifestyle it is rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Carpathian brook lamprey?
The Carpathian brook lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eel-shaped, jawless lamprey with a round sucker mouth full of horny teeth and seven gill openings; lacks pectoral and pelvic fins.
Where does the Carpathian brook lamprey live?
The Carpathian brook lamprey lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of the Danube basin in the Carpathians, in cool, fast-flowing streams and rivers with gravel and sandy bottoms.
How big does the Carpathian brook lamprey get?
The Carpathian brook lamprey grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Carpathian brook lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Carpathian brook lamprey is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Carpathian brook lamprey edible?
The Carpathian brook lamprey is not usually eaten.
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More from the family Petromyzontidae
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