Fin's Fish Guide
The Red-Tailed Silverside (Bedotia geayi) is a freshwater fish of the family Bedotiidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Endemic to Madagascar; well-shaded, calm parts of small streams at altitude.
Description
Geay's rainbowfish is a colourful fish of the family Bedotiidae, endemic to Madagascar. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a dark lateral stripe and, in males, handsomely red and black-edged tail and fin tips. It prefers well-shaded, quieter sections of small streams at altitude. As a surface and midwater hunter it feeds on insects, larvae and small zooplankton. Owing to deforestation, habitat loss and introduced species the wild populations have strongly declined, so the species is listed as Endangered (EN). It is popular in the aquarium and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red-Tailed Silverside?
The Red-Tailed Silverside has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Endemic Madagascar rainbowfish; males with red-and-black edged fins, endangered (EN).
Where does the Red-Tailed Silverside live?
The Red-Tailed Silverside lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to Madagascar; well-shaded, calm parts of small streams at altitude.
How big does the Red-Tailed Silverside get?
The Red-Tailed Silverside grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Red-Tailed Silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Red-Tailed Silverside is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Red-Tailed Silverside edible?
The Red-Tailed Silverside is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Bedotia
More from the family Bedotiidae
Want the complete picture on the Red-Tailed Silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red-Tailed Silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.