Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluefin tetra (Paragoniates alburnus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The bluefin tetra is a small characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender, translucent, silvery body with a bluish sheen and a deep, keeled chest. As an open-water fish it swims in schools near the surface of rivers and eats small insects, larvae and zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluefin tetra?
The Bluefin tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Bluefin tetra live?
The Bluefin tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Peru, Venezuela
How big does the Bluefin tetra get?
The Bluefin tetra grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Bluefin tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Bluefin 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 Bluefin tetra edible?
Yes, the Bluefin tetra is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Bluefin tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluefin tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.