Fin's Fish Guide
The Lesser African threadfin (Galeoides decadactylus) is a saltwater fish of the family Polynemidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of turbid coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
Description
The lesser African threadfin is a silvery bottom fish of the family Polynemidae (threadfins) reaching about 50 cm. Characteristic of the family is the blunt, projecting snout with an inferior mouth, and a row of separate, thread-like lower pectoral-fin rays that feel over the muddy bottom for prey like sensitive feelers. The species lives in schools over sand and mud bottoms of turbid coastal water and estuaries along the West African coast and tolerates brackish water. With its feeler rays it detects shrimps, small crustaceans, worms and small fish. The threadfin is an important commercial fish in West Africa, heavily landed by coastal and estuarine fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lesser African threadfin?
The Lesser African threadfin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Silvery bottom fish with a blunt, protruding snout and a row of separate, thread-like lower pectoral fin rays that feel over the bottom as a sensory organ.
Where does the Lesser African threadfin live?
The Lesser African threadfin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, over sandy and silty bottoms of turbid coastal water and estuaries; tolerates brackish water.
How big does the Lesser African threadfin get?
The Lesser African threadfin grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Lesser African threadfin dangerous to humans?
No, the Lesser African threadfin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lesser African threadfin edible?
Yes, the Lesser African threadfin is a highly prized food fish.
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More from the family Polynemidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lesser African threadfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.