Fin's Fish Guide
The Schioetz's lampeye (Rhexipanchax schioetzi) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 4 cm.
West Africa; calm, vegetated forest streams and small rivers of the rainforest.
Description
Schioetz's lampeye is a small killifish of the lampeye toothcarp family from West Africa. The species grows to only about 4 cm and is notable for the shining, reflective upper part of its eyes, which gives lampeyes their name. It inhabits quiet, vegetated parts of forest brooks and small rivers in the rainforest. It lives in schools just below the water surface and feeds on small zooplankton, insects and small invertebrates. Males are slightly more brightly coloured than females. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Schioetz's lampeye?
The Schioetz's lampeye has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glossy, reflective upper side of the eyes (lampeye); surface schooling fish of forest streams.
Where does the Schioetz's lampeye live?
The Schioetz's lampeye lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. West Africa; calm, vegetated forest streams and small rivers of the rainforest.
How big does the Schioetz's lampeye get?
The Schioetz's lampeye grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Schioetz's lampeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Schioetz's lampeye is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Schioetz's lampeye edible?
The Schioetz's lampeye is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhexipanchax
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Schioetz's lampeye?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Schioetz's lampeye is one of 12,519 species in the app.