Fin's Fish Guide
The Black tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The black tetra is a characin (Characidae) from South America. The species has a deep, laterally compressed body; juveniles are silvery-grey with two black crossbars and a dark rear half that fades with age. It lives in schools in the middle and upper water layers of quiet streams and rivers. As an omnivore it feeds on worms, small crustaceans and insects. It is a popular aquarium fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black tetra?
The Black tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Juveniles with two black vertical bars that fade with age; popular shoaling aquarium fish.
Where does the Black tetra live?
The Black tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America; calm streams and rivers.
How big does the Black tetra get?
The Black tetra grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Black tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Black tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black tetra edible?
The Black 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 Gymnocorymbus
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Black tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.