Fin's Fish Guide
The Carter's tetra (Phenacogaster carteri) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The Carter's tetra is a characin (Characidae) from clear streams and rivers of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body with an adipose fin and often a shiny lengthwise stripe or tail spot. As a social schooling fish it swims in the water column and snaps at small plankton, insect larvae and plant matter. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Carter's tetra?
The Carter's tetra has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Carter's tetra live?
The Carter's tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Guyana
How big does the Carter's tetra get?
The Carter's tetra grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Carter's tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Carter's 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.
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Carter's 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 Phenacogaster
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Carter's tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Carter's tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.