Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark tetra (Astyanax mutator) is a fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Dark tetra is a South American characin or tetra (Characidae) from fresh water of northern South America. The species grows to about 8 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 Dark tetra?
The Dark tetra is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Dark tetra live?
The Dark tetra is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Dark tetra get?
The Dark tetra grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Dark tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark 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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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 Dark tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.