Fin's Fish Guide
The Oily bitterling (Tanakia limbata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The oily bitterling is a small cyprinid relative (Acheilognathidae) from clear rivers, ponds and ditches of Japan and Korea in East Asia. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a deep, silvery body that flushes orange and blue-green in spawning males. Distinctively, the female uses a long ovipositor to lay the eggs inside the gill cavity of a living freshwater mussel, where the young grow up safely. It eats algae, small invertebrates and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Oily bitterling?
The Oily bitterling has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Oily bitterling live?
The Oily bitterling lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Japan
How big does the Oily bitterling get?
The Oily bitterling grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Oily bitterling dangerous to humans?
No, the Oily bitterling 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tanakia
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Oily bitterling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Oily bitterling is one of 12,519 species in the app.