Fin's Fish Guide
The Katanga lampeye (Lacustricola katangae) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Fresh water of Central and southern Africa, along calm, vegetated banks of rivers, swamps and pools.
Description
The Katanga lampeye is a very small, translucent killifish of the family Procatopodidae (African lampeyes) reaching only about 5 cm. Characteristic are the shiny, sometimes bluish-glowing eyes - which seem to light up like little lamps - and the upturned mouth, an adaptation to life just below the water surface. The species forms schools along quiet, vegetated margins of rivers, swamps and pools in Central 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 Katanga lampeye?
The Katanga lampeye has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very small, translucent killifish with shining eyes and an upward-facing mouth; lives just below the water surface.
Where does the Katanga lampeye live?
The Katanga lampeye lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of Central and southern Africa, along calm, vegetated banks of rivers, swamps and pools.
How big does the Katanga lampeye get?
The Katanga lampeye grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Katanga lampeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Katanga lampeye is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Katanga lampeye edible?
The Katanga lampeye is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lacustricola
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Katanga lampeye?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Katanga lampeye is one of 12,519 species in the app.