The Silver lamprey (Ichthyomyzon unicuspis) is a freshwater fish of the family Petromyzontidae that grows up to 39 cm.
Description
The silver lamprey is a lamprey from eastern North America, in the Mississippi and Great Lakes systems. The species grows to about 39 cm and has an eel-like, jawless body without scales; instead of jaws it has a round, horny-toothed sucking mouth. As an adult it lives parasitically: it attaches to larger fish and sucks blood and body fluids. The larvae live for years buried as filter-feeders in stream beds. To humans it is harmless; the IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver lamprey?
The Silver lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Silver lamprey live?
The Silver lamprey lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Silver lamprey get?
The Silver lamprey grows to a maximum of about 39 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Silver lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver lamprey is harmless to humans.
Is the Silver lamprey edible?
The Silver lamprey is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ichthyomyzon
More from the family Petromyzontidae
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