Fin's Fish Guide
The Johnston's topminnow (Micropanchax johnstoni) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, along calm, vegetated banks of lakes, rivers and swamps.
Description
Johnston's topminnow is a small, translucent killifish of the family Procatopodidae (African lampeyes) reaching about 8 cm. Characteristic are the large, shiny silvery-blue eyes - which glow like little lamps in side light - and the upturned mouth, an adaptation to life just below the water surface. The species forms schools along quiet, vegetated margins of lakes, rivers and swamps in eastern and southern Africa. It mainly eats insects that fall onto the water, midge larvae and small zooplankton. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger fish and waterbirds, and it helps keep mosquito larvae in check.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Johnston's topminnow?
The Johnston's topminnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, translucent killifish with large, shiny eyes and an upturned mouth; lives just below the water surface.
Where does the Johnston's topminnow live?
The Johnston's topminnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, along calm, vegetated banks of lakes, rivers and swamps.
How big does the Johnston's topminnow get?
The Johnston's topminnow grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Johnston's topminnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Johnston's topminnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Johnston's topminnow edible?
The Johnston's topminnow is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Johnston's topminnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Johnston's topminnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Micropanchax
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Johnston's topminnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Johnston's topminnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.