Fin's Fish Guide
The Least brook lamprey (Lampetra aepyptera) is a freshwater fish of the family Petromyzontidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The least brook lamprey is a small lamprey (Petromyzontidae) from the eastern United States. The species is a primitive, jawless fish with an eel-shaped, scaleless body and a round sucking mouth. It inhabits clean, clear gravel streams and creeks. The worm-like larvae live buried in the sediment for years, filtering detritus and algae; the adults do not feed, spawn and then die. Unlike parasitic lampreys it does not attach to fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Least brook lamprey?
The Least brook lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Jawless, non-parasitic lamprey; the larvae filter feed for years in the sediment, adults do not feed.
Where does the Least brook lamprey live?
The Least brook lamprey lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern United States; clean gravel streams and brooks.
How big does the Least brook lamprey get?
The Least brook lamprey grows to a maximum of about 18 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Least brook lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Least brook lamprey is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Least brook lamprey edible?
The Least brook lamprey is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lampetra
More from the family Petromyzontidae
Want the complete picture on the Least brook lamprey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Least brook lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.