The Maloti minnow (Pseudobarbus quathlambae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The Maloti minnow is a small cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from clear, flowing mountain streams of the Maloti Mountains of Lesotho. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, elongate body that develops red or orange fins in the breeding season, and two pairs of small barbels. As a social fish it swims in schools and eats insect larvae, small invertebrates and algae. Through introduced predators and habitat loss many of these species are threatened. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Maloti minnow?
The Maloti minnow has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Maloti minnow live?
The Maloti minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Maloti minnow get?
The Maloti minnow grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Maloti minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Maloti minnow is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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