Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver lamprey (Ichthyomyzon unicuspis) is a freshwater fish of the family Petromyzontidae that grows up to 39 cm.
Description
The silver lamprey is a lamprey from eastern North America, in the Mississippi and Great Lakes systems. The species grows to about 39 cm and has an eel-like, jawless body without scales; instead of jaws it has a round, horny-toothed sucking mouth. As an adult it lives parasitically: it attaches to larger fish and sucks blood and body fluids. The larvae live for years buried as filter-feeders in stream beds. To humans it is harmless; the IUCN assesses it as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver lamprey?
The Silver lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Jawless sucker mouth with horny teeth; the adult parasitises fishes
Where does the Silver lamprey live?
The Silver lamprey lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern North America
How big does the Silver lamprey get?
The Silver lamprey grows to a maximum of about 39 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Silver lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver lamprey is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Silver lamprey edible?
The Silver lamprey 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 Ichthyomyzon
More from the family Petromyzontidae
Want the complete picture on the Silver lamprey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.