Fin's Fish Guide
The Silverside (Brycinus leuciscus) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
Brycinus leuciscus is a small African characin of the family Alestidae from rivers of West Africa, including the Niger and Senegal. The species has a streamlined, laterally compressed, silvery body and reaches only about 12 cm. It lives in schools in clear, flowing waters and feeds as an omnivore on small invertebrates, insects and plant matter. The species closely resembles several related Brycinus species and is difficult to distinguish from them in the field. Owing to its small size it has no significant fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silverside?
The Silverside has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small silvery shoaling characin; hard to tell apart from related species.
Where does the Silverside live?
The Silverside lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Rivers of West Africa.
How big does the Silverside get?
The Silverside grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Silverside dangerous to humans?
No, the Silverside 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 Silverside edible?
The Silverside is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brycinus
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Silverside?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silverside is one of 12,519 species in the app.