Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender bitterling (Tanakia lanceolata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 13 cm.
East Asia (Japan and Korea), in clear ponds, lakes and slow-flowing streams with freshwater mussels.
Description
The slender bitterling is a slim cyprinid of the family Acheilognathidae (bitterlings) reaching about 13 cm. The compressed, silvery body has a blue-green lengthwise stripe over the rear half of the flank and a small barbel; breeding males colour up more vividly. Characteristic is the special reproduction: the female develops a long ovipositor and lays the eggs in the gill cavity of a living freshwater mussel, where the larvae grow up sheltered. The species comes from Japan and Korea and lives in clear ponds, lakes and slow-flowing streams where such mussels occur. It eats algae, zooplankton, insect larvae and detritus. It is popular in the coldwater aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender bitterling?
The Slender bitterling has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender little cyprinid with a blue-green longitudinal stripe; lays its eggs in the gill cavity of a living freshwater mussel.
Where does the Slender bitterling live?
The Slender bitterling lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. East Asia (Japan and Korea), in clear ponds, lakes and slow-flowing streams with freshwater mussels.
How big does the Slender bitterling get?
The Slender bitterling grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Slender bitterling dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender bitterling is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Slender bitterling edible?
The Slender bitterling is not usually eaten.
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Same genus Tanakia
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Slender bitterling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender bitterling is one of 12,519 species in the app.