Fin's Fish Guide
The Characin (Schizodon fasciatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Anostomidae that grows up to 40 cm.
South America; pools and calm river sections of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
Description
The banded headstander is a South American characin of the headstander family (Anostomidae) from the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with a few broad, dark crossbars. Adults occur in ponds and quiet river sections. It is a strict herbivore that grazes water plants, algae and plant matter. Headstanders often hold themselves at an angle, head down, among vegetation. The banded headstander is a valued food fish. Owing to its modest build and plant diet it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Characin?
The Characin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Broad dark vertical bars; strict plant-eater that often stays head-down among vegetation.
Where does the Characin live?
The Characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America; pools and calm river sections of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
How big does the Characin get?
The Characin grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Characin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Characin edible?
Yes, the Characin is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Schizodon
More from the family Anostomidae
Want the complete picture on the Characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.