Fin's Fish Guide
The Cauca tetra (Astyanax caucanus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Cauca tetra is a South American characin or tetra (Characidae) from fresh water of the Cauca and Magdalena basins in Colombia. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a dark shoulder mark and often a dark stripe towards the tail base. As a lively schooling fish it swims in streams and rivers and eats insects, crustaceans, algae and plant material. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cauca tetra?
The Cauca tetra has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Cauca tetra live?
The Cauca tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Colombia
How big does the Cauca tetra get?
The Cauca tetra grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Cauca tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Cauca 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Astyanax
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Cauca tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cauca tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.