The forktail lates (Lates microlepis) is a species of lates perch endemic to Lake Tanganyika. Juveniles inhabit inshore habitats, moving as adults to open-water pelagic zones where it preys on other fishes. This species can reach a length of 93cm (37inches) TL and the greatest reported weight of this species is 8.3kg (18.3lb). It is a commercially important species and is also popular as a game fish.