Ruaha lampeye
📖 Overview
Ruaha lampeye (Lacustricola omoculatus), first described by Wildekamp, 1977 is a tiny fish in the family Poeciliidae (order Cyprinodontiformes). Adults typically reach 3.50 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. It is broadly omnivorous, taking invertebrates, plant matter, and detritus. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Vulnerable.The species is important as a food fish and kept in the aquarium hobby. As a member of the Poeciliidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Ruaha lampeye is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Ruaha lampeye is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic; pH range: 6.3 - 7.2; dH range: ? - 1; non-migratory. Tropical; 16°C - 22°C central Tanzania.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Ruaha lampeye is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Ruaha lampeye is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Ruaha lampeye has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aplocheilichthys omoculatus | Wildekamp | 1977 | Synonym |
| Micropanchax omoculatus | Wildekamp | 1977 | Synonym |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Ruaha lampeye.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 3 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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