Fin's Fish Guide
The Lamprey (Geotria australis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Geotriidae that grows up to 57 cm.
Southern Hemisphere, anadromous: larvae live for years in the upper reaches of coastal streams, after which they migrate to sea.
Description
The pouched lamprey is a lamprey (family Geotriidae), a jawless, eel-like fish of the southern hemisphere. The species reaches about 57 cm and has a snake-like body with a round sucking disc instead of jaws and two dorsal fins. The larvae live for years buried in the upper reaches of coastal streams, filtering detritus and microorganisms; after metamorphosis they migrate to the sea and adults live parasitically on the blood and tissue of other fishes. To spawn they return to fresh water. The species is eaten locally; its conservation status is assessed as Data Deficient (DD). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lamprey?
The Lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Jawless lamprey with a sucking disc; adults live parasitically on other fishes; anadromous life cycle.
Where does the Lamprey live?
The Lamprey lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southern Hemisphere, anadromous: larvae live for years in the upper reaches of coastal streams, after which they migrate to sea.
How big does the Lamprey get?
The Lamprey grows to a maximum of about 57 cm. On average the species is around 48 cm.
Is the Lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Lamprey is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lamprey edible?
Yes, the Lamprey is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Lamprey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.