The Slender bitterling (Acheilognathus gracilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The slender bitterling is a small cyprinid (Acheilognathidae) from slow-flowing and still fresh water of East Asia. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, silvery body that in spawning males lights up with rainbow colours. Remarkable is its reproduction: the female uses a long ovipositor to lay her eggs in the gill cavity of a live freshwater mussel, where the young grow up safely. It eats algae, small zooplankton and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender bitterling?
The Slender bitterling has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Slender bitterling live?
The Slender bitterling lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Slender bitterling get?
The Slender bitterling grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Slender bitterling dangerous to humans?
No, the Slender bitterling is harmless to humans.
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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
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