Fin's Fish Guide
The Sword minnow (Macrochirichthys macrochirus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Description
The sword minnow is a large predatory cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from large rivers and lakes of Southeast Asia, including the Mekong basin. The species grows to about 1 metre and has a strongly compressed, bright-silvery, sabre-shaped body with a sharply upturned mouth and large pectoral fins. As a fast open-water hunter it darts at small fish. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sword minnow?
The Sword minnow has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Sword minnow live?
The Sword minnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Viet Nam and others
How big does the Sword minnow get?
The Sword minnow grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Sword minnow dangerous to humans?
No, the Sword minnow 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 Sword minnow edible?
Yes, the Sword minnow is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Sword minnow?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sword minnow is one of 12,519 species in the app.