Fin's Fish Guide
The Finescale foureyed fish (Anableps microlepis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Anablepidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The finescale foureyed fish is a striking surface fish from northern South America, ranging from Trinidad and Venezuela to the Amazon delta in Brazil. It grows to about 32 cm and lives in estuaries and brackish water near river mouths, often in loose groups. Its best-known feature is its bulging eyes, which through a horizontal division can see above and below the water surface at the same time. The fish swims with the upper half of its eyes above water, scanning for prey and danger. It is a livebearing species that feeds omnivorously. It is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Finescale foureyed fish?
The Finescale foureyed fish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Horizontally divided eyes that see above and below water at the same time; surface swimmer
Where does the Finescale foureyed fish live?
The Finescale foureyed fish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northern South America
How big does the Finescale foureyed fish get?
The Finescale foureyed fish grows to a maximum of about 32 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Finescale foureyed fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Finescale foureyed fish 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 Finescale foureyed fish edible?
The Finescale foureyed fish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anableps
More from the family Anablepidae
Want the complete picture on the Finescale foureyed fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Finescale foureyed fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.