Fin's Fish Guide
The Luja's minnow (Leptocypris lujae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Luja's minnow is a small cyprinid fish from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a slender, streamlined, silvery body typical of open-water swimming cyprinids. It lives in schools in flowing rivers and brooks and is an omnivore feeding on small invertebrates, insects and plant matter. As a small schooling fish it is a link in the food web and prey for larger fishes. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Luja's minnow?
The Luja's minnow has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, silvery small open-water cyprinid that forages in shoals.
Where does the Luja's minnow live?
The Luja's minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central Africa; rivers and streams of the Congo basin.
How big does the Luja's minnow get?
The Luja's minnow grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Luja's minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Luja's minnow is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Luja's minnow edible?
The Luja's minnow is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leptocypris
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Luja's minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Luja's minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.