Fin's Fish Guide
The Darter tetra (Characidium zebra) is a freshwater fish of the family Crenuchidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
Characidium zebra is a small, bottom-dwelling characin of the family Crenuchidae from South America. The species has an elongate, yellow-brown body with a series of dark cross-bars forming a zebra-like pattern, and reaches about 7 cm. It lives in groups in the upper reaches of rivers and is common in fast-flowing water over a sandy or rocky bottom. With its bottom-oriented habits, propping itself jerkily on the pectoral fins, it strongly resembles the North American darters. It feeds mainly on insects dug from the substrate. Owing to its peculiar appearance the species is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Darter tetra?
The Darter tetra has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small zebra-like vertical bars; bottom-dweller that resembles a darter.
Where does the Darter tetra live?
The Darter tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Upper reaches of rivers in South America.
How big does the Darter tetra get?
The Darter tetra grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Darter tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Darter 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.
Is the Darter tetra edible?
The Darter tetra is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Characidium
More from the family Crenuchidae
Want the complete picture on the Darter tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Darter tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.