Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded astyanax (Astyanax fasciatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Fresh water of Central and South America, in a wide variety of rivers, streams and lakes.
Description
The banded astyanax is a lively, silvery characin of the family Characidae (characins or tetras) reaching about 15 cm. The laterally compressed body has an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins, as in many characins, and often bears a dark spot on the shoulder and at the tail base; the fins are partly reddish. The species lives in fresh water of Central and South America, in a wide variety of rivers, streams and lakes. In schools it feeds on insects, insect larvae, small crustaceans, algae and plant material. In the rainy season it spawns in shallow, vegetated water. The group it belongs to is well known in the aquarium hobby; in its range it is a common prey for larger predators.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded astyanax?
The Banded astyanax is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Lively, silvery characin (tetra) with an adipose fin and often a dark blotch on the shoulder and the caudal base; red in the fins.
Where does the Banded astyanax live?
The Banded astyanax lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of Central and South America, in a wide variety of rivers, streams and lakes.
How big does the Banded astyanax get?
The Banded astyanax grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Banded astyanax dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded astyanax is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded astyanax edible?
The Banded astyanax is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Astyanax
More from the family Characidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded astyanax is one of 12,519 species in the app.