Fin's Fish Guide
The Forktail lates (Lates microlepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Latidae that grows up to 93 cm.
Description
The forktail lates is a lates perch (Latidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has a robust, silvery, elongate body with fine scales and a forked tail. Juveniles live in a specific shallow inshore habitat until they reach about eighteen centimetres; thereafter they live in the upper open water layers of the lake. As a large predator it hunts other fishes. It is a valued food fish but is considered endangered. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Forktail lates?
The Forktail lates has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large fish-eating predator with fine scales; endangered endemic of Lake Tanganyika.
Where does the Forktail lates live?
The Forktail lates lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; open water.
How big does the Forktail lates get?
The Forktail lates grows to a maximum of about 93 cm.
Is the Forktail lates dangerous to humans?
No, the Forktail lates is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Forktail lates edible?
Yes, the Forktail lates is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lates
More from the family Latidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Forktail lates is one of 12,519 species in the app.