Fin's Fish Guide
The Grass-eater (Distichodus engycephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Distichodontidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Africa; flowing water over rocky bottoms of the Nile and the Chad and Niger basins.
Description
The silver distichodus is an African characin of the family Distichodontidae from the Nile and the Chad and Niger basins in Africa. The species grows to about 40 cm (up to about 50 cm) and has a deep, silvery body with a small head and a rounded snout. It prefers flowing water over rocky bottoms of rivers. As a predominantly herbivorous fish it grazes water plants, algae and growth, supplemented with some small invertebrates. Distichodus species are robust river dwellers. The silver distichodus is a locally valued food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grass-eater?
The Grass-eater has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, silvery body with a small head; mainly plant-eating, robust river-dweller.
Where does the Grass-eater live?
The Grass-eater lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa; flowing water over rocky bottoms of the Nile and the Chad and Niger basins.
How big does the Grass-eater get?
The Grass-eater grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Grass-eater dangerous to humans?
No, the Grass-eater is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Grass-eater edible?
Yes, the Grass-eater is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Distichodus
More from the family Distichodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Grass-eater?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grass-eater is one of 12,519 species in the app.