Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern brook lamprey (Ichthyomyzon gagei) is a freshwater fish of the family Petromyzontidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The southern brook lamprey is a small, jawless lamprey from fresh water of the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 17 cm and has an eel-shaped, scaleless body with a round sucking mouth and a row of gill openings behind the eye. Unlike parasitic lampreys the adult is non-parasitic: it no longer feeds and simply reproduces. The larvae (ammocoetes) live for years buried in soft sediment of streams and filter detritus and algae. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern brook lamprey?
The Southern brook lamprey has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Jawless sucker mouth; non-parasitic lamprey with buried filter-feeding larvae
Where does the Southern brook lamprey live?
The Southern brook lamprey lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern United States
How big does the Southern brook lamprey get?
The Southern brook lamprey grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Southern brook lamprey dangerous to humans?
No, the Southern brook 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 Southern brook lamprey edible?
The Southern brook lamprey is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Southern brook lamprey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern brook lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Southern brook lamprey?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern brook lamprey is one of 12,519 species in the app.