Fin's Fish Guide
The African red-eyed characin (Arnoldichthys spilopterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The African red-eyed tetra is an African characin of the family Alestidae from the Niger Delta and coastal lowlands of West Africa. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with large scales, a red mark above the eye and a dark blotch on the anal fin. It lives in schools in slow-flowing coastal waters and is an active swimmer. As an omnivore it feeds on worms, insects and crustaceans. In spawning the female lays up to a thousand eggs after vigorous courtship, which hatch within a few days. Owing to a restricted range and habitat pressure the species is listed as Endangered (EN). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African red-eyed characin?
The African red-eyed characin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Red blotch above the eye and large scales; endangered schooling fish of the Niger Delta.
Where does the African red-eyed characin live?
The African red-eyed characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. West Africa; Niger Delta and coastal lowlands, slow-flowing waters.
How big does the African red-eyed characin get?
The African red-eyed characin grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the African red-eyed characin dangerous to humans?
No, the African red-eyed characin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African red-eyed characin edible?
The African red-eyed 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 African red-eyed characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African red-eyed characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.