Fin's Fish Guide
The Western shellear (Cromeria occidentalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Kneriidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The western shellear is a tiny, scaleless fish (Kneriidae) from clear, sandy streams of West Africa. The species grows to only about 3 cm and has an extremely slender, translucent, scaleless body with a small head. As a bottom-dweller it lives among sand and gravel of oxygen-rich streams and snaps at microscopic invertebrates, algae and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Western shellear?
The Western shellear has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Western shellear live?
The Western shellear lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Benin, Ghana, Guinea and others
How big does the Western shellear get?
The Western shellear grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Western shellear dangerous to humans?
No, the Western 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.
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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 Western shellear?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Western shellear is one of 12,519 species in the app.