The Nile lampeye (Micropanchax antinorii) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Nile lampeye is a small African lampeye (Procatopodidae) from shallow fresh water of the Nile system and adjacent East Africa. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a slender, semi-translucent body with a strikingly iridescent blue-glowing upper rim of the eye. As a schooling fish it swims near the surface of clear streams, swamps and lake shores and snaps at small zooplankton and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nile lampeye?
The Nile lampeye has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Nile lampeye live?
The Nile lampeye lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Nile lampeye get?
The Nile lampeye grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Nile lampeye dangerous to humans?
No, the Nile lampeye is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Micropanchax
More from the family Poeciliidae
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