Manyas spirlin facts for kids

The Manyas spirlin (scientific name: Alburnoides manyasensis) is a small, freshwater fish that lives only in Turkey. It is a type of spirlin, which are often found in rivers and streams. This special fish was first officially described in 2013.

What is the Manyas Spirlin?

The Manyas spirlin is a small fish, usually only a few inches long. Like many fish, it has a sleek body that helps it swim fast in water. Its scales are often silvery, helping it blend in with its surroundings. This fish is part of the Alburnoides group, which includes many similar small fish species.

Where Does it Live?

The Manyas spirlin is found only in certain freshwater areas of Turkey. This means it is an "endemic" species, which is a scientific way of saying it lives naturally in only one specific place in the world. It prefers clear, flowing water like rivers and streams. These habitats provide the perfect conditions for the spirlin to find food and shelter.

What Does it Eat?

The Manyas spirlin is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plants and animals. Its diet mainly includes tiny insects and their larvae that live in the water. It also eats small bits of plant material and algae. By eating these things, the spirlin helps keep its freshwater environment clean and balanced.

Reproduction and Life Cycle

Like most fish, Manyas spirlins reproduce by laying eggs. Female spirlins lay their eggs in the water, often in safe, hidden spots. The male fish then fertilizes the eggs. After a short time, tiny baby fish, called fry, hatch from the eggs. These fry grow quickly, feeding on even smaller organisms in the water. They eventually become adult fish, ready to continue the life cycle.