Fin's Fish Guide
The Rainbow gudgeon (Sarcocheilichthys nigripinnis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The blackfin gudgeon is a small cyprinid from East Asia, including China. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a streamlined body with dark fins, to which the name refers, and brighter tints in spawning individuals. It inhabits rivers, brooks and lakes with a soft or gravel bottom. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and detritus. Bitterling-like relatives sometimes lay their eggs in freshwater mussels; in this genus reproduction is oviparous. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rainbow gudgeon?
The Rainbow gudgeon has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Dark fins; bottom-foraging roach of East Asian rivers and lakes.
Where does the Rainbow gudgeon live?
The Rainbow gudgeon lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia; rivers, streams and lakes with soft or gravel bottoms.
How big does the Rainbow gudgeon get?
The Rainbow gudgeon grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Rainbow gudgeon dangerous to humans?
No, the Rainbow gudgeon is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rainbow gudgeon edible?
The Rainbow gudgeon is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sarcocheilichthys
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Rainbow gudgeon?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rainbow gudgeon is one of 12,519 species in the app.