Fin's Fish Guide
The Eugnathichthys (Eugnathichthys macroterolepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Distichodontidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
Description
The Congo eugnathichthys is a slender African characin of the family Distichodontidae reaching about 15 cm. The silvery, elongate body has an adipose fin and a few dark spots on the flank. The species comes from the Congo basin in Central Africa and lives in schools in clear, flowing rivers and creeks. Notable is its feeding behaviour: besides insects and small crustaceans it also nibbles pieces of the fins and scales of other fish, a form of fin- and scale-eating found in a few relatives. In the rainy season it spawns. Because of its small size and great numbers it is a link in the food web of the Congo rivers and a prey fish for larger species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Eugnathichthys?
The Eugnathichthys has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Slender little African characin from the distichodus family with an adipose fin and a few dark blotches on the flank.
Where does the Eugnathichthys live?
The Eugnathichthys lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
How big does the Eugnathichthys get?
The Eugnathichthys grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Eugnathichthys dangerous to humans?
No, the Eugnathichthys is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Eugnathichthys edible?
The Eugnathichthys is not usually eaten.
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Same genus Eugnathichthys
More from the family Distichodontidae
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