Fin's Fish Guide
The Amazon dogtooth characin (Cynopotamus amazonum) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Amazon dogtooth characin is a slender predatory characin from fresh water of the Amazon and La Plata basins of South America. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a deep, silvery, laterally compressed body with an upturned mouth full of small, sharp teeth and a projecting lower jaw. As a surface hunter it chases small fish in rivers and floodplains. The fish is harmless to humans and has limited commercial value. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Amazon dogtooth characin?
The Amazon dogtooth characin has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Upturned mouth with sharp teeth; surface-hunting predatory characin
Where does the Amazon dogtooth characin live?
The Amazon dogtooth characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America
How big does the Amazon dogtooth characin get?
The Amazon dogtooth characin grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Amazon dogtooth characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Amazon dogtooth characin is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Amazon dogtooth characin edible?
The Amazon dogtooth characin is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cynopotamus
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Amazon dogtooth characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Amazon dogtooth characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.