Fin's Fish Guide
The Collett's tetra (Moenkhausia collettii) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 6 cm.
South America; slow-flowing parts of the main stem of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
Description
Collett's tetra is a small South American characin of the family Characidae from the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a shining lateral stripe and a conspicuous black-and-yellow spot on the tail base. It stays in slow-flowing parts of the main stream, often over muddy bottoms. As a small omnivore it feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae and plant matter. It is a peaceful schooling fish popular in the aquarium. Owing to its small size it is prey for larger fishes and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Collett's tetra?
The Collett's tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Glossy longitudinal stripe and a black-and-yellow blotch at the tail base; peaceful small schooling fish.
Where does the Collett's tetra live?
The Collett's tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America; slow-flowing parts of the main stem of the Amazon and Orinoco basins.
How big does the Collett's tetra get?
The Collett's tetra grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Collett's tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Collett's tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Collett's tetra edible?
The Collett's tetra is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Collett's tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Collett'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 Moenkhausia
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Collett's tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Collett's tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.