Fin's Fish Guide
The Essequibo tetra (Jupiaba essequibensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Essequibo tetra is a small tetra from northern South America, in the Essequibo basin of Guyana and surroundings. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body, often with a dark shoulder spot and tail stripe, and has characteristic bony spines before the pelvic fins. It forms schools in clear streams and rivers and feeds on small invertebrates, insects and plant matter. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Essequibo tetra?
The Essequibo tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small bony spines in front of the pelvic fins; schooling little characin
Where does the Essequibo tetra live?
The Essequibo tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northern South America
How big does the Essequibo tetra get?
The Essequibo tetra grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Essequibo tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Essequibo 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 Essequibo tetra edible?
The Essequibo tetra is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Jupiaba
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Essequibo tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Essequibo tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.