Fin's Fish Guide
The Adonis characin (Lepidarchus adonis) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 2 cm.
Description
The Adonis characin is a tiny African characin (Alestidae) from the forest streams of Ghana and Ivory Coast in West Africa. The species reaches only about 2 cm and has an almost transparent, very slender body. It lives in schools in clear, shaded forest streams. The diet consists of small zooplankton and small invertebrates. Through its extremely restricted range and degradation of forest habitat the species is assessed by the IUCN as vulnerable (VU). It is prized by hobbyists but, owing to its small size and sensitivity, difficult to keep in the aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Adonis characin?
The Adonis characin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Minute, almost translucent small African tetra; vulnerable (VU).
Where does the Adonis characin live?
The Adonis characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. West Africa (Ghana and Ivory Coast), in forest streams.
How big does the Adonis characin get?
The Adonis characin grows to a maximum of about 2 cm. On average the species is around 2 cm.
Is the Adonis characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Adonis characin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Adonis characin edible?
The Adonis characin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Adonis characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Adonis characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.