Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin Congo tetra (Alestopetersius nigropterus) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Central Africa; endemic to Lake Mai-Ndombe (middle Congo basin, DR Congo).
Description
The Blackfin Congo tetra is an African tetra (Alestidae) from fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, silvery body with a pearly sheen, an adipose fin and, in courting males, finely extended fins. As a social schooling fish it swims in clear rivers and streams and snaps at insects, larvae and plant matter. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin Congo tetra?
The Blackfin Congo tetra has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender little African tetra with dark fin tips; endangered (EN), endemic to Lake Mai-Ndombe.
Where does the Blackfin Congo tetra live?
The Blackfin Congo tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Central Africa; endemic to Lake Mai-Ndombe (middle Congo basin, DR Congo).
How big does the Blackfin Congo tetra get?
The Blackfin Congo tetra grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Blackfin Congo tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin Congo tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackfin Congo tetra edible?
The Blackfin Congo tetra is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin Congo tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin Congo tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alestopetersius
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin Congo tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin Congo tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.