Fin's Fish Guide
The African tetra (Brycinus comptus) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The African tetra is an African tetra (Alestidae) from West Africa. The species has a slender, laterally compressed, silvery body. It lives in schools in the open water layers of rivers and streams. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, small zooplankton, seeds and plant matter. It is a prey fish for larger species and locally a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African tetra?
The African tetra has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender silvery body; schooling West African tetra of open water layers.
Where does the African tetra live?
The African tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. West Africa; rivers and streams.
How big does the African tetra get?
The African tetra grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the African tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the African tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the African tetra edible?
The African tetra is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brycinus
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the African tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.