The Western shellear (Cromeria occidentalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Kneriidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The western shellear is a tiny, scaleless fish (Kneriidae) from clear, sandy streams of West Africa. The species grows to only about 3 cm and has an extremely slender, translucent, scaleless body with a small head. As a bottom-dweller it lives among sand and gravel of oxygen-rich streams and snaps at microscopic invertebrates, algae and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Western shellear?
The Western shellear has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Western shellear live?
The Western shellear lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Western shellear get?
The Western shellear grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Western shellear dangerous to humans?
No, the Western shellear is harmless to humans.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cromeria
More from the family Kneriidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.