Fin's Fish Guide
The Pinkfin Alestes (Brycinus grandisquamis) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
Brycinus grandisquamis is an African characin of the family Alestidae from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a streamlined, laterally compressed, silvery body with conspicuously large scales, to which the name refers, and often pink hues in the fins. It reaches about 26 cm and lives in schools in rivers. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insects, fruits and plant matter. Owing to its size the species is of local fishery importance. Like many African alestids it is an active swimmer in the open water column of larger rivers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pinkfin Alestes?
The Pinkfin Alestes has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly large scales and pink tints in the fins; schooling characin of large rivers.
Where does the Pinkfin Alestes live?
The Pinkfin Alestes lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Rivers of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Pinkfin Alestes get?
The Pinkfin Alestes grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Pinkfin Alestes dangerous to humans?
No, the Pinkfin Alestes 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 Pinkfin Alestes edible?
The Pinkfin Alestes is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brycinus
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Pinkfin Alestes?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pinkfin Alestes is one of 12,519 species in the app.