Fin's Fish Guide
The Trewavas' neolebias (Neolebias trewavasae) is a freshwater fish of the family Distichodontidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in calm, vegetated creeks and swamps.
Description
Trewavas' neolebias is a very small African characin of the family Distichodontidae reaching only about 4 cm. The body is reddish-brown with a dark stripe along the flank; unlike many characins the species lacks an adipose fin. Males are more vividly coloured than females in the breeding season. The species lives in schools in quiet, vegetated creeks and swamps of the Congo basin in Central Africa. As an omnivore it eats small zooplankton, insect larvae, algae and detritus, sought among the water plants. In the rainy season it spawns among fine plants. Because of its small size and peaceful nature it is popular with keepers of small aquarium fish, and in the wild a prey fish for larger species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Trewavas' neolebias?
The Trewavas' neolebias has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Very small African characin with a dark longitudinal stripe and reddish-brown tints; lacks the adipose fin of many relatives.
Where does the Trewavas' neolebias live?
The Trewavas' neolebias lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in calm, vegetated creeks and swamps.
How big does the Trewavas' neolebias get?
The Trewavas' neolebias grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Trewavas' neolebias dangerous to humans?
No, the Trewavas' neolebias is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Trewavas' neolebias edible?
The Trewavas' neolebias is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Neolebias
More from the family Distichodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Trewavas' neolebias?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Trewavas' neolebias is one of 12,519 species in the app.