Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo river sardine (Chelaethiops congicus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
Chelaethiops congicus is a small, slender minnow (Cyprinidae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a streamlined, silvery body with a shining lateral band and reaches about 11 cm. It is a pelagic schooling fish living near the surface in the open water column of rivers and lakes. The diet consists of zooplankton and small insects taken from or near the surface. With its sardine-like build and habits the species fills a role in fresh water similar to that of small pelagic marine fishes.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo river sardine?
The Congo river sardine has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, slender silvery pelagic cyprinid that lives in shoals near the surface.
Where does the Congo river sardine live?
The Congo river sardine lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Congo river sardine get?
The Congo river sardine grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Congo river sardine dangerous to humans?
No, the Congo river sardine is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Congo river sardine edible?
The Congo river sardine is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Congo river sardine?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chelaethiops
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Congo river sardine?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Congo river sardine is one of 12,519 species in the app.