Fin's Fish Guide
The Bass tetra (Hemigrammus rodwayi) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The gold tetra (Hemigrammus rodwayi) is a small characin of the family Characidae from northern South America. The species reaches only a few centimetres and in the wild is often covered with a striking golden sheen; this sheen is a skin reaction to the larvae of a trematode parasite and is absent in captive-bred fish. It is particularly abundant in coastal creeks and floodplains with a certain salinity level. As a small omnivore it lives in schools and feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter. Owing to its golden sheen the wild form is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bass tetra?
The Bass tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Golden sheen as a skin reaction to a parasite; absent in farmed individuals.
Where does the Bass tetra live?
The Bass tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Coastal creeks and floodplains of northern South America.
How big does the Bass tetra get?
The Bass tetra grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Bass tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Bass tetra 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 Bass tetra edible?
The Bass tetra is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemigrammus
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Bass tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bass tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.