Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded tetra (Astyanax aeneus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The banded tetra is a characin (Characidae) from Central America. The species is small and silvery with a bronze sheen and a dark spot on the tail base. It is highly adaptable and inhabits all sorts of rivers and streams, from swift water to swamps and stagnant pools. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, small zooplankton, algae and plant matter. It is a prey fish for larger fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded tetra?
The Banded tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Bronze sheen and a dark caudal blotch; highly adaptable, schooling small characin.
Where does the Banded tetra live?
The Banded tetra lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; varied rivers, streams and pools.
How big does the Banded tetra get?
The Banded tetra grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Banded tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded tetra edible?
The Banded tetra is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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
Want the complete picture on the Banded tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.