Fin's Fish Guide
The Lake Tumba dwarf sprat (Nannothrissa parva) is a freshwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The dwarf sprat is a very small freshwater herring-like fish (Clupeidae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to only a few centimetres and has a slender, silvery body. It occurs in rivers and lakes, in both flowing and still water, often in huge schools. With its fine gill rakers it filters small zooplankton from the water. It is an important prey fish for larger fishes and birds. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat?
The Lake Tumba dwarf sprat has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very small freshwater herring of the Congo basin; forms enormous shoals, important prey fish.
Where does the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat live?
The Lake Tumba dwarf sprat lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Congo basin in Central Africa; rivers and lakes.
How big does the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat get?
The Lake Tumba dwarf sprat grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat dangerous to humans?
No, the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat edible?
The Lake Tumba dwarf sprat is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nannothrissa
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lake Tumba dwarf sprat is one of 12,519 species in the app.