Fin's Fish Guide
The Mesopotamian tooth-carp (Aphanius sophiae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The Mesopotamian tooth-carp is a small egg-laying toothcarp from fresh water of Iran and Iraq in the Middle East. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a stocky, silvery body; males and females differ in colour and markings. It lives in springs, streams and pools with a water temperature of about 20 to 30 degrees and feeds mainly on algae and plant matter, supplemented with small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans and has not been evaluated by the IUCN (NE).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mesopotamian tooth-carp?
The Mesopotamian tooth-carp has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small oviparous toothcarp of springs and streams
Where does the Mesopotamian tooth-carp live?
The Mesopotamian tooth-carp lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Iran and Iraq
How big does the Mesopotamian tooth-carp get?
The Mesopotamian tooth-carp grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Mesopotamian tooth-carp dangerous to humans?
No, the Mesopotamian tooth-carp 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 Mesopotamian tooth-carp edible?
The Mesopotamian tooth-carp is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aphanius
More from the family Cyprinodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Mesopotamian tooth-carp?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mesopotamian tooth-carp is one of 12,519 species in the app.