Fin's Fish Guide
The Common skygazer (Chanodichthys erythropterus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 102 cm.
Description
The predatory carp is a large cyprinid from East Asia, including China, the Amur basin and adjacent areas. The species grows to about one metre and has an elongate, laterally compressed, silvery body with a strongly upturned mouth and reddish fins, to which the name refers. Adults inhabit rivers and lakes. Unlike most cyprinids this is a decided predator that hunts insects, crustaceans and smaller fishes, mainly in the upper water layers. The predatory carp is an important commercial fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common skygazer?
The Common skygazer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strongly upturned mouth and reddish fins; pronounced predatory carp of the upper water layers.
Where does the Common skygazer live?
The Common skygazer lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia; rivers and lakes of China, the Amur basin and surroundings.
How big does the Common skygazer get?
The Common skygazer grows to a maximum of about 102 cm. On average the species is around 47 cm.
Is the Common skygazer dangerous to humans?
No, the Common skygazer is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common skygazer edible?
Yes, the Common skygazer is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chanodichthys
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Common skygazer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common skygazer is one of 12,519 species in the app.