Fin's Fish Guide
The Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline (Odaxothrissa mento) is a freshwater fish of the family Clupeidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The toothed river sardine is a small, predatory freshwater herring of the family Clupeidae from West Africa. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, silvery body with, unusual for a herring, small teeth in the jaws. It lives in rivers and brooks, and also in the man-made Lake Volta. Unlike most plankton-feeding herrings it hunts as a small predator for small fishes, shrimps and insects. It forms schools in open water. As an abundant species it is important in the river food web and a local food fish. Owing to its small size it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline?
The Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Predatory freshwater herring with small teeth, unusual for a herring-like fish.
Where does the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline live?
The Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. West Africa; rivers, streams and Lake Volta.
How big does the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline get?
The Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline dangerous to humans?
No, the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline edible?
Yes, the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Odaxothrissa
More from the family Clupeidae
Want the complete picture on the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nigerian fangtooth pellonuline is one of 12,519 species in the app.