Fin's Fish Guide
The Tonkin bitterling (Acheilognathus tonkinensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Tonkin bitterling is a cyprinid bitterling from Southeast Asia, occurring in northern Vietnam, southern China and the Nam Mat basin in Laos. It grows to about 12 cm and has a moderately deep, laterally compressed body with small maxillary barbels near the mouth. Like all bitterlings, the female uses an ovipositor to lay her eggs inside a living freshwater mussel, where the young grow up protected until they can swim freely. The fish lives in slow-flowing fresh water. Owing to insufficient data the IUCN lists the species as Data Deficient (DD).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tonkin bitterling?
The Tonkin bitterling has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small barbels; reproduces in freshwater mussels
Where does the Tonkin bitterling live?
The Tonkin bitterling lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Tonkin bitterling get?
The Tonkin bitterling grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Tonkin bitterling dangerous to humans?
No, the Tonkin bitterling 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 Tonkin bitterling edible?
The Tonkin bitterling 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 Acheilognathus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Tonkin bitterling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tonkin bitterling is one of 12,519 species in the app.