Identification

A characin with a compressed, bright silvery body, large clearly visible scales, greenish back, fins often slightly tinted. Small adipose fin at the rear; forked caudal. Looks like a freshwater “sardine”, living in active schools.

Features that never mislead

Silvery body with large, distinct scales (hence macrolepidotus).

Small adipose fin (characin family).

Forked caudal; swims fast in schools.

Modest mouth lined with small teeth.

Size and weight

Usually 12 to 25 cm; published maximum around 30 cm.

Behaviour and ecology

A gregarious, active fish of open water: it eats insects, seeds, plant debris and small invertebrates drifting in the current. Prime prey of the big predators (Nile perch, tigerfish), it plays a key role in the food chain.

Reproduction and season

Oviparous; spawns in the rainy season in flooded areas; numerous eggs ensure the renewal of the schools.

Fishing practice

Techniques, from most to least effective

Float fishing with a small bait (maggot, piece of worm, paste) over the schools. The top technique, ideal for beginners.

Fly or micro-lure on the surface when the schools are rising.

Cast net and small-mesh net in subsistence fishing.

Quick, lively bites; a lively little fish, great fun on light tackle. Easy and safe to handle.

Eating quality

A small fish with fine but bony flesh, mostly eaten fried whole or smoked; also makes an excellent live bait for predators.

Sources: FishBase (Brycinus macrolepidotus, Valenciennes 1850); IUCN Red List (Least Concern); Lévêque & Paugy. Related species: B. longipinnis, B. imberi. Local names to be documented.