Fin's Fish Guide
The Zezera (Biwia zezera) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 6 cm.
East Asia; endemic to Japan (Lake Biwa basin and western Japan); slow-flowing rivers, ponds and ditches.
Description
The zezera is a small East Asian cyprinid endemic to Japan (the Lake Biwa basin and western Japan). The species grows to about 6 cm and has a stocky, silver-grey body with a row of dark spots along the flank and a short barbel. It inhabits slow-flowing rivers, ponds and ditches with a soft bottom. As a bottom searcher it feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae, algae and detritus. It is a peaceful bottom fish that stays in small groups. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Zezera?
The Zezera has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Row of small dark flank blotches and a short barbel; peaceful small bottom fish of slow-flowing water.
Where does the Zezera live?
The Zezera lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. East Asia; endemic to Japan (Lake Biwa basin and western Japan); slow-flowing rivers, ponds and ditches.
How big does the Zezera get?
The Zezera grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Zezera dangerous to humans?
No, the Zezera is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Zezera edible?
The Zezera is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Biwia
More from the family Cyprinidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Zezera is one of 12,519 species in the app.