Fin's Fish Guide
The Gosse's leporinus (Leporinus gossei) is a freshwater fish of the family Anostomidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Fresh water of northern South America (the Guianas), in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
Description
Gosse's leporinus is an elongate characin of the family Anostomidae (headstanders) reaching about 25 cm. The yellow-brown body bears dark crossbars or blotches, has an adipose fin and a small mouth with prominent gnawing teeth. Like other headstanders it often swims at an angle with the head slightly down, a posture suited to nibbling growth off stones and wood and searching among crevices. The species comes from northern South America, the Guianas, and lives in clear, flowing rivers and creeks. As an omnivore it eats algae, growth, fruit, seeds and small invertebrates. In the rainy season it spawns. Because of its markings and lively nature it is popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gosse's leporinus?
The Gosse's leporinus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Oblong small characin with dark vertical bars or blotches, an adipose fin and gnawing teeth; sometimes swims at an angle with the head down.
Where does the Gosse's leporinus live?
The Gosse's leporinus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of northern South America (the Guianas), in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
How big does the Gosse's leporinus get?
The Gosse's leporinus grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Gosse's leporinus dangerous to humans?
No, the Gosse's leporinus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Gosse's leporinus edible?
The Gosse's leporinus is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leporinus
More from the family Anostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Gosse's leporinus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gosse's leporinus is one of 12,519 species in the app.