Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver distichodus (Distichodus affinis) is a freshwater fish of the family Distichodontidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in rivers, creeks and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
The silver distichodus is a deep, laterally compressed characin of the family Distichodontidae reaching about 20 cm. The silvery body has a small head with a downturned mouth, an adipose fin (as in many characins) and often a dark spot near the tail. The species comes from the Congo basin in Central Africa and lives in schools in rivers, creeks and swamps with abundant water plants. It mainly eats plant matter: water plants, algae, growth and detritus, which it scrapes off plants and the bottom. In the rainy season it spawns among flooded vegetation. With its size it is locally a food fish, and young animals occasionally appear in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver distichodus?
The Silver distichodus has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, silvery little characin with a small head, an adipose fin and a dark blotch near the tail; feeds mainly on plants.
Where does the Silver distichodus live?
The Silver distichodus lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in rivers, creeks and swamps with abundant aquatic plants.
How big does the Silver distichodus get?
The Silver distichodus grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Silver distichodus dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver distichodus is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Silver distichodus edible?
Yes, the Silver distichodus is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Status & sources
Same genus Distichodus
More from the family Distichodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Silver distichodus?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver distichodus is one of 12,519 species in the app.