Fin's Fish Guide
The Nijssen's leporinus (Leporinus nijsseni) is a freshwater fish of the family Anostomidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The Nijssen's leporinus is a headstander (Anostomidae) from rivers and floodplains of the Amazon basin in Peru. The species grows to about 25 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with dark bands or a longitudinal stripe and a small, protruding mouth. Characteristically it often swims at an angle with the head down, picking algae, biofilm, insect larvae, fruit and plant matter from among stones, roots and plants. It is locally a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nijssen's leporinus?
The Nijssen's leporinus has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Elongate characin of the family Anostomidae with a small mouth and usually dark blotches or bands on a golden body.
Where does the Nijssen's leporinus live?
The Nijssen's leporinus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Freshwater of the northwestern Amazon basin in Colombia.
How big does the Nijssen's leporinus get?
The Nijssen's leporinus grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Nijssen's leporinus dangerous to humans?
No, the Nijssen's leporinus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Leporinus
More from the family Anostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Nijssen's leporinus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nijssen's leporinus is one of 12,519 species in the app.