Fin's Fish Guide
The Chilean lamprey (Mordacia lapicida) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Mordaciidae that grows up to 54 cm.
Description
The Chilean lamprey is a jawless lamprey (Mordaciidae) from rivers and coastal waters of Chile in South America. The species grows to about 54 cm and has an eel-like, scaleless, jawless body with a round sucking mouth bearing horny teeth and seven gill openings. The larvae live for years buried as filter feeders in river sediment; the adults are parasitic and rasp onto other fish. It is not dangerous to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chilean lamprey?
The Chilean lamprey has a snake-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Chilean lamprey live?
The Chilean lamprey lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Chile
How big does the Chilean lamprey get?
The Chilean lamprey grows to a maximum of about 54 cm.
Is the Chilean lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Chilean lamprey 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mordacia
More from the family Mordaciidae
Want the complete picture on the Chilean lamprey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chilean lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.