Fin's Fish Guide
The Characin (Alestes baremoze) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
Alestes baremoze is an African characin of the family Alestidae occurring in rivers and lakes of the Sahel and Northeast Africa, including the Nile, Lake Chad and the Niger. The species has a streamlined, silvery body and reaches about 43 cm. It is mainly diurnal and has a flexible diet: as plankton densities decline it shifts from zooplankton to benthos, detritus and aquatic plants. The species undertakes seasonal migrations during high and low water and is very important for commercial seine-net and gillnet fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Characin?
The Characin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Flexible diet that shifts with the seasons; important commercial migratory fish.
Where does the Characin live?
The Characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Rivers and lakes of the Sahel and northeast Africa.
How big does the Characin get?
The Characin grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Characin 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.
Is the Characin edible?
Yes, the Characin is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alestes
More from the family Alestidae
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.