Fin's Fish Guide
The Ohio lamprey (Ichthyomyzon bdellium) is a freshwater fish of the family Petromyzontidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The Ohio lamprey is a lamprey (Petromyzontidae), a jawless, primitive fish from North America. The species has an eel-shaped, scaleless body without jaws, with a round sucker mouth full of horny teeth and a continuous dorsal fin. Adults live as parasites and attach with the sucker mouth to other fishes to suck blood and tissue. It inhabits smaller, upland rivers and spawns there on gravel beds. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ohio lamprey?
The Ohio lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Jawless lamprey with a round sucking mouth; adults parasitise fishes.
Where does the Ohio lamprey live?
The Ohio lamprey lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America; smaller upland rivers.
How big does the Ohio lamprey get?
The Ohio lamprey grows to a maximum of about 30 cm. On average the species is around 19 cm.
Is the Ohio lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Ohio lamprey is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ohio lamprey edible?
The Ohio lamprey is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ichthyomyzon
More from the family Petromyzontidae
Want the complete picture on the Ohio lamprey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ohio lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.