Fin's Fish Guide
The Festive curimata (Cyphocharax festivus) is a freshwater fish of the family Curimatidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The festive curimata is a toothless characin (Curimatidae) from fresh water of the Paraguay and Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky, silvery body without teeth, often with a dark tail spot, and a small mouth. As a social bottom-dweller it swims in schools through rivers and streams and eats fine detritus, algae and biofilm from the bottom. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Festive curimata?
The Festive curimata has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Festive curimata live?
The Festive curimata lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Brazil, Guyana, Peru, Venezuela
How big does the Festive curimata get?
The Festive curimata grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Festive curimata dangerous to humans?
No, the Festive curimata 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 Cyphocharax
More from the family Curimatidae
Want the complete picture on the Festive curimata?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Festive curimata is one of 12,519 species in the app.