Fin's Fish Guide
The River sardine (Mesobola brevianalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Southern and eastern Africa; open, clear water of rivers, streams and lakes.
Description
The river sardine is a small, slender African cyprinid from southern and eastern Africa. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a streamlined, silvery and translucent body with a shining lateral stripe. It lives in schools in the open, clear water of rivers, brooks and lakes, often just below the surface. As an omnivore it feeds on small zooplankton, insects and small invertebrates. As an abundant prey fish it is an important link in the food web and prey for larger predatory fishes and birds. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the River sardine?
The River sardine has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, translucent schooling fish with a shiny longitudinal stripe; lives just below the surface.
Where does the River sardine live?
The River sardine lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Southern and eastern Africa; open, clear water of rivers, streams and lakes.
How big does the River sardine get?
The River sardine grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the River sardine dangerous to humans?
No, the River sardine is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the River sardine edible?
The River sardine is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Mesobola
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the River sardine?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the River sardine is one of 12,519 species in the app.