Fin's Fish Guide
The Lake Chad citharine (Citharinus gibbosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Citharinidae that grows up to 61 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in rivers, lakes and floodplains.
Description
The Lake Chad citharine is a deep, silvery characiform of the family Citharinidae reaching about 61 cm. The strongly compressed body has a humped back, large shiny scales and an adipose fin, as in many characins. The species comes from West and Central Africa and lives in schools in rivers, lakes and floodplains. It is mainly a filter feeder and plant-eater, taking phytoplankton, algae, detritus and plant matter from the water and the bottom. In the rainy season it spawns on flooded floodplains. With its tasty, fatty flesh it is an important commercial and food fish in the West and Central African inland fishery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lake Chad citharine?
The Lake Chad citharine has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, silvery characin with a humped back, large scales and an adipose fin; a filter feeder and plant-eater.
Where does the Lake Chad citharine live?
The Lake Chad citharine lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in rivers, lakes and floodplains.
How big does the Lake Chad citharine get?
The Lake Chad citharine grows to a maximum of about 61 cm.
Is the Lake Chad citharine dangerous to humans?
No, the Lake Chad citharine is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lake Chad citharine edible?
Yes, the Lake Chad citharine is a highly prized food fish.
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Same genus Citharinus
More from the family Citharinidae
Want the complete picture on the Lake Chad citharine?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lake Chad citharine is one of 12,519 species in the app.