Fin's Fish Guide
The Darter characine (Apareiodon affinis) is a freshwater fish of the family Parodontidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The darter characin is a small characin from fresh water of southern South America, including the Parana and La Plata basins. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a slender, streamlined body with an inferior mouth with which it scrapes aufwuchs and algae from stones. As a bottom-dweller it lives in clear, flowing water of rivers and streams and often props itself on its pectoral fins on the bottom. The fish is harmless to humans and has limited commercial value. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Darter characine?
The Darter characine has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Inferior mouth for scraping algae off stones; bottom-propping small characin
Where does the Darter characine live?
The Darter characine lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern South America
How big does the Darter characine get?
The Darter characine grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Darter characine dangerous to humans?
No, the Darter characine 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 Darter characine edible?
The Darter characine is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Apareiodon
More from the family Parodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Darter characine?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Darter characine is one of 12,519 species in the app.