Fin's Fish Guide
The Large razorbelly minnow (Salmostoma bacaila) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The large razorbelly minnow is a slender cyprinid from fresh and brackish water of South Asia, in India, Bangladesh and Nepal. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a very slender, silvery body with a sharp, razor-like belly edge. It schools near the surface of rivers, lakes and estuaries and feeds on small zooplankton, insects and larvae. It is a local bait and food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Large razorbelly minnow?
The Large razorbelly minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Very slender body with a razor-like ventral edge; small surface-schooling fish
Where does the Large razorbelly minnow live?
The Large razorbelly minnow lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South Asia
How big does the Large razorbelly minnow get?
The Large razorbelly minnow grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Large razorbelly minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Large razorbelly minnow 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 Large razorbelly minnow edible?
The Large razorbelly minnow is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Salmostoma
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Large razorbelly minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Large razorbelly minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.