The vampire fish is not a single fish. Rather the term “vampire” refers to a group of predatory fish which are known for their sharp teeth and blood-feeding habits. The name of this fish might evoke images of the mythological creatures, they are fascinating in their own right.
These fish are an intriguing part of the aquatic ecosystem. They are often feared or misunderstood, but they also play an essential role in controlling fish population in their environments. They are simply products of evolution, equipped with remarkable adaptations for survival. Read more information about this fish species below.
What Is Vampire Fish?
Vampire is a predatory fish which are found in the rivers of South America (particularly in the Amazon and Orinoco basins). The name of these fish comes from its distinctive, fang-like teeth (which protrude from its lower jaw and resemble the fangs of a vampire).
Different Species
There are a few species commonly associated with the term “vampire fish”. Here we are trying to describe about each species.
Vampire Tetra
The Vampire Tetra (Hydrolycus scomberoides) species is also known as the “Payara”. It is mainly found in the Amazon and Orinoco River basins in South America. It is a notorious fish for its large, fang-like teeth, which can grow up to 2.5 inches long. Their teeth are used to hunt smaller fish, including those that are often too large for other predators. Despite their vampire-like appearance, they do not feed on blood. Instead, they use their sharp teeth to impale their prey before swallowing it whole.
Average size of the vampire tetras can reach length of up to 3 feet. And their average live body weight is typically between 7 to 9 kg. Although, their exact weight can vary depending on their environment and age.
Candiru
The Candiru (Vandellia cirrhosa) is found in the Amazon River. It is a small parasitic fish that has earned a frightening reputation. It feeds by latching onto the gills of larger fish and feeding on their blood. Despite its tiny size, it is notorious for its ability to latch onto its host with its spiny fins.
Candirus are much smaller as compared to other species of vampire fish. They typically grow to about 2.5 to 3 inches long. And their average body weight is typically less than 1 ounce.
Electric Eel
The Electric eel has earned a certain reputation for its shocking capabilities. Although, it is not a true “vampire fish”. It doesn’t feed on blood, it can deliver a jolt of electricity powerful enough to stun prey or deter potential threats.
The Electric eel fish is mainly found in the waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins and it uses it’s electricity to hunt smaller fish and defend itself. These ells can grow quite large, reaching up to 8 feet sometimes. And they can weigh around or up to 20 kg.
Characteristics of Vampire Fish
Most of the vampire fish species have several distinctive physical characteristics which makes them very easy to recognize. Most of these species have distinctive, large teeth, often in the form of fangs or long, sharp incisors. These teeth are essential for catching and consuming pretty, and in some species, for defense.
The term “vampire” implies blood-feeding, most of the fish associated with this name feed on flesh rather than just blood. Although, there are exceptions like the candiru.
Vampire Fish Bite
The term “vampire” evokes images of blood-feeding creatures. But most of these fish do not use their bites for blood consumption. Rather, they are equipped with sharp teeth to capture and consume pretty. In most cases, their bites can be painful and potentially dangerous in the context of handling or while hunting in their natural environments. But these fish are typically not a threat to humans unless provoked or mishandled. Among the vampire, the vampire tetra has the most dangerous bite, as its sharp fangs can cause injury to both prey and humans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
People often ask several questions regarding these fish. Here we are trying to list the most common and frequently asked questions about the vampire fish and trying to answer them. Don’t hesitate to ask if you have more questions.
How big is a vampire fish?
Exact size of the vampire fish depends on the species. For example, the Payara fish can grow up to 3 feet in length.
Where do vampire fish live?
Most of these fish are mainly found in the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America, primarily in Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia.
Are vampire fish dangerous?
No, most of the vampire fish are not dangerous to humans. Despite their sharp, fang-like teeth, they are not aggressive toward people. Their fangs are used to catch and hold onto other fish, not to harm humans.
Can you eat vampire fish?
Yes, vampire fish are edible. Although, they are not commonly eaten by humans. They are sometimes caught by local fisherman, but they generally not consume.
What do vampire fish eat?
The vampire fish are carnivorous and most of them are primarily feed on other fish, including smaller species.
