Fin's Fish Guide
The Discus tetra (Brachychalcinus orbicularis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The discus tetra is a characin (Characidae) from northern South America. The species reaches about 9 cm and has a strikingly deep, almost round and strongly compressed, silvery body, to which the name refers. It lives in schools in rivers and streams. As an omnivore it feeds on worms, insects, crustaceans and plant matter. The mirror-like, deep shape helps it vanish into a school from predators. Because of its handsome shape the species is sometimes kept as an aquarium fish; locally it is eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Discus tetra?
The Discus tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, almost round and mirror-like body; shoaling tetra.
Where does the Discus tetra live?
The Discus tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. The north of South America, in rivers and streams.
How big does the Discus tetra get?
The Discus tetra grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Discus tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Discus tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Discus tetra edible?
Yes, the Discus tetra is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Brachychalcinus
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Discus tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Discus tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.