The Fire-mouth epiplatys (Epiplatys chaperi) is a freshwater fish of the family Nothobranchiidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
Chaper's epiplatys is a small, colourful killifish of the family Nothobranchiidae (African killifishes) reaching about 6 cm. The body is yellow-brown with fine vertical streaks; males carry handsome red and blue tints on head, throat and fins, which give the species its English name 'fire-mouth'. The head is flat with an upturned mouth, so the fish can lurk for prey just below the water surface. The species lives in small groups in quiet, shaded forest streams, creeks and swamps of West Africa. As a surface ambush hunter it darts at insects that fall onto the water, supplemented with midge larvae and small zooplankton. Because of its colour it is a classic aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fire-mouth epiplatys?
The Fire-mouth epiplatys has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Fire-mouth epiplatys live?
The Fire-mouth epiplatys lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds.
How big does the Fire-mouth epiplatys get?
The Fire-mouth epiplatys grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Fire-mouth epiplatys dangerous to humans?
No, the Fire-mouth epiplatys is harmless to humans.
Is the Fire-mouth epiplatys edible?
The Fire-mouth epiplatys is not usually eaten.
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Same genus Epiplatys
More from the family Nothobranchiidae
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