Fin's Fish Guide
The Lake Rukwa sardine (Chelaethiops rukwaensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Lake Rukwa sardine is a small cyprinid endemic to Lake Rukwa in Tanzania. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, silvery, sardine-like body. It forms large schools in the open water of the lake and feeds on small zooplankton and insects. Although it could support a substantial fishery, this is barely developed. Because of its restricted range in a single lake it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lake Rukwa sardine?
The Lake Rukwa sardine has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender silvery sardine-like small schooling fish; endemic to a single lake
Where does the Lake Rukwa sardine live?
The Lake Rukwa sardine lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Rukwa
How big does the Lake Rukwa sardine get?
The Lake Rukwa sardine grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Lake Rukwa sardine dangerous to humans?
No, the Lake Rukwa sardine is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Lake Rukwa sardine edible?
Yes, the Lake Rukwa sardine is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chelaethiops
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Lake Rukwa sardine?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lake Rukwa sardine is one of 12,519 species in the app.