Fin's Fish Guide
The Striptail robber (Brycinus taeniurus) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
Brycinus taeniurus is a small African characin of the family Alestidae from fresh water of West and Central Africa. The species has a streamlined, laterally compressed, silvery body with usually a dark stripe on the caudal fin, to which the name refers, and reaches only about 10 cm. It lives in schools in clear, flowing streams and rivers and feeds as an omnivore on small invertebrates, insects and plant matter. Owing to its small size the species is mainly an important prey for larger fishes and has no significant fishery value of its own.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striptail robber?
The Striptail robber has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Dark stripe on the caudal fin; small silvery schooling characin.
Where does the Striptail robber live?
The Striptail robber lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Flowing streams and rivers of West and Central Africa.
How big does the Striptail robber get?
The Striptail robber grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Striptail robber dangerous to humans?
No, the Striptail robber 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 Striptail robber edible?
The Striptail robber 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 Brycinus
More from the family Alestidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Striptail robber is one of 12,519 species in the app.