Fin's Fish Guide
The Boulenger's African tetra (Bryconaethiops boulengeri) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in rivers, creeks and floodplains.
Description
Boulenger's African tetra is a slender, silvery characin of the family Alestidae (African tetras) reaching about 25 cm. The laterally compressed body has an adipose fin, as in many characins; the male develops an enlarged, taller dorsal fin in the breeding season. The species comes from the Congo basin in Central Africa and lives in schools in rivers, creeks and floodplains. As an omnivore it eats insects, seeds, plant matter and zooplankton, taken at the surface and in the water column. In the rainy season it spawns on flooded margins. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and a locally valued small food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Boulenger's African tetra?
The Boulenger's African tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, silver African characin with an adipose fin; the male has an enlarged dorsal fin in the spawning season.
Where does the Boulenger's African tetra live?
The Boulenger's African tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in rivers, creeks and floodplains.
How big does the Boulenger's African tetra get?
The Boulenger's African tetra grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Boulenger's African tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Boulenger's African tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Boulenger's African tetra edible?
Yes, the Boulenger's African tetra is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Boulenger's African tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Boulenger's African 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 Bryconaethiops
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Boulenger's African tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Boulenger's African tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.