Fin's Fish Guide
The Fourspine leaffish (Afronandus sheljuzhkoi) is a freshwater fish of the family Nandidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The African leaffish is a small predator (Nandidae) from the fresh waters of West Africa. The species is small and has a stocky, brownish body that resembles a dead leaf in shape and colour, an effective camouflage. It inhabits flowing fresh water of streams and small rivers. As an ambush hunter it hangs motionless among cover and suddenly sucks small fishes and invertebrates into its highly protrusible mouth. Owing to habitat loss the species is considered near threatened. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fourspine leaffish?
The Fourspine leaffish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Resembles a dead leaf as camouflage; ambush predator with a highly protrusible mouth, sensitive due to habitat loss.
Where does the Fourspine leaffish live?
The Fourspine leaffish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of West Africa; flowing streams and small rivers.
How big does the Fourspine leaffish get?
The Fourspine leaffish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Fourspine leaffish dangerous to humans?
No, the Fourspine leaffish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Fourspine leaffish edible?
The Fourspine leaffish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Nandidae
Want the complete picture on the Fourspine leaffish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fourspine leaffish is one of 12,519 species in the app.