Fin's Fish Guide
The Essequibo biara (Psectrogaster essequibensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Curimatidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The Essequibo biara is a detritivorous characin (Curimatidae) from rivers and floodplains of the Essequibo and Amazon basins in northern South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, silvery body with a toothless, inferior mouth. As a detritus feeder it grazes over soft bottoms on organic mud, algae and micro-organisms. It forms large schools. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Essequibo biara?
The Essequibo biara has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Essequibo biara live?
The Essequibo biara lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Bolivia, Brazil, Guyana, Peru
How big does the Essequibo biara get?
The Essequibo biara grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Essequibo biara dangerous to humans?
No, the Essequibo biara 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 Psectrogaster
More from the family Curimatidae
Want the complete picture on the Essequibo biara?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Essequibo biara is one of 12,519 species in the app.