Fin's Fish Guide
The Topmouth culter (Culter alburnus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 93 cm.
Description
The topmouth culter is a slender predatory carp (Xenocyprididae) from fresh water of East Asia, including China. The species grows to about 90 cm and has an elongate, laterally compressed, bright silvery body with a strongly upturned mouth. As an open-water predator it hunts small fish and large invertebrates in lakes and slow rivers. It is an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Topmouth culter?
The Topmouth culter has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Topmouth culter live?
The Topmouth culter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Mongolia, Russia
How big does the Topmouth culter get?
The Topmouth culter grows to a maximum of about 93 cm. On average the species is around 28 cm.
Is the Topmouth culter dangerous to humans?
No, the Topmouth culter 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Culter
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Topmouth culter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Topmouth culter is one of 12,519 species in the app.