Fin's Fish Guide
The Sleek lates (Lates stappersii) is a freshwater fish of the family Latidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The sleek lates is a perch-like fish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with large eyes. As a pelagic predator it schools in open water and hunts mainly the small sardine-like forage fish of the lake. It is one of the most important commercial fishery species of Lake Tanganyika. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sleek lates?
The Sleek lates has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Streamlined body with large eyes; pelagic open-water predator
Where does the Sleek lates live?
The Sleek lates lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Tanganyika (endemic)
How big does the Sleek lates get?
The Sleek lates grows to a maximum of about 45 cm.
Is the Sleek lates dangerous to humans?
No, the Sleek lates 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 Sleek lates edible?
Yes, the Sleek lates is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Sleek lates?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sleek lates is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lates
More from the family Latidae
Want the complete picture on the Sleek lates?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sleek lates is one of 12,519 species in the app.