Fin's Fish Guide
The Carp headstander (Cyphocharax magdalenae) is a freshwater fish of the family Curimatidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The Magdalena curimatid is a characin of the detritivore family (Curimatidae) from the Magdalena basin in Colombia. The species has a stocky, silvery body and lacks teeth in the mouth; instead it has a muscular stomach to process bottom silt. It inhabits rivers and streams of moderate current at low elevation, and is abundant in shallow waters over sand or mud bottoms. As a detritivore it feeds on organic bottom material, diatoms and algae. The species is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Carp headstander?
The Carp headstander has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Toothless mouth with a muscular stomach to process bottom silt; detritus feeder.
Where does the Carp headstander live?
The Carp headstander lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Magdalena river basin in Colombia; rivers and streams.
How big does the Carp headstander get?
The Carp headstander grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Carp headstander dangerous to humans?
No, the Carp headstander is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Carp headstander edible?
Yes, the Carp headstander is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cyphocharax
More from the family Curimatidae
Want the complete picture on the Carp headstander?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Carp headstander is one of 12,519 species in the app.