Fin's Fish Guide
The Naked shellear (Cromeria nilotica) is a freshwater fish of the family Kneriidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The naked shellear is an extremely small freshwater fish from the Nile and West African basins. The species grows to only about 3 cm and has a slender, translucent and almost scaleless body, to which the name refers. It lives among water plants and bottom material of calm rivers and swamps and feeds on small zooplankton and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Naked shellear?
The Naked shellear has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly white and shows a plain pattern. Extremely small, translucent, almost scaleless body
Where does the Naked shellear live?
The Naked shellear lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Nile and West Africa
How big does the Naked shellear get?
The Naked shellear grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Naked shellear dangerous to humans?
No, the Naked shellear is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Naked shellear edible?
The Naked shellear is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cromeria
More from the family Kneriidae
Want the complete picture on the Naked shellear?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Naked shellear is one of 12,519 species in the app.