Fin's Fish Guide
The Natal lampeye (Lacustricola myaposae) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The Natal topminnow is a small killifish from southern Africa, from the Pongola to the Umlalazi in Natal in South Africa. The species grows to about 5.5 cm, but is usually around 3 cm, and has a slender body with an upturned mouth and a glinting eye-ring. It lives in vegetated lakes and well-vegetated streams and feeds on aquatic insects, especially mosquito larvae, and algae, making it a potential natural mosquito-control agent. It lays its eggs in batches on aquatic plants. Because of its limited range the species is listed as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Natal lampeye?
The Natal lampeye has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glittering eye rim; eats midge larvae (possible midge control agent)
Where does the Natal lampeye live?
The Natal lampeye lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa
How big does the Natal lampeye get?
The Natal lampeye grows to a maximum of about 6 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Natal lampeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Natal lampeye 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 Natal lampeye edible?
The Natal lampeye is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lacustricola
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Natal lampeye?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Natal lampeye is one of 12,519 species in the app.