Fin's Fish Guide
The Black morpho tetra (Poecilocharax weitzmani) is a freshwater fish of the family Crenuchidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The black morpho tetra is a small, colourful characin from the western Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a dark body with a broad, iridescent blue-green lateral band and red tones in the fins; males have large, fan-shaped fins. It lives in calm, blackwater forest brooks with leaf litter and eats small zooplankton and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans, prized but difficult in the aquarium trade, and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black morpho tetra?
The Black morpho tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Iridescent lateral band; males with large fan-shaped fins
Where does the Black morpho tetra live?
The Black morpho tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Western Amazon basin
How big does the Black morpho tetra get?
The Black morpho tetra grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Black morpho tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Black morpho 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 Black morpho tetra edible?
The Black morpho tetra is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Crenuchidae
Want the complete picture on the Black morpho tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black morpho tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.