Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo robber (Brycinus opisthotaenia) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
Brycinus opisthotaenia is an African characin of the family Alestidae from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a streamlined, laterally compressed, silvery body, often with a dark stripe toward the tail, and reaches about 13 cm. It lives in schools in the open water column of rivers and creeks and feeds as an omnivore on small invertebrates, insects and plant matter. Owing to its small size the species is mainly an important prey for larger fishes. Like many African alestids it is a fast, active swimmer in clear, flowing water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo robber?
The Congo robber has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Fast schooling characin with a dark caudal stripe from the Congo basin.
Where does the Congo robber live?
The Congo robber lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Rivers and creeks of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Congo robber get?
The Congo robber grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Congo robber dangerous to humans?
No, the Congo robber 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.
Is the Congo robber edible?
The Congo robber is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brycinus
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Congo robber?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Congo robber is one of 12,519 species in the app.