Fin's Fish Guide
The Flag-tailed tetra (Moenkhausia lepidura) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The flag-tailed tetra is a small freshwater characin of the family Characidae from South America. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a characteristic dark marking on the tail. It lives in schools in flowing and standing waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins and the Guianas, and feeds on small invertebrates. As a schooling fish, group living provides protection from predators. The species is a common inhabitant of clear and black water and is occasionally kept as an aquarium fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Flag-tailed tetra?
The Flag-tailed tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Slender little schooling fish with characteristic dark markings on the tail.
Where does the Flag-tailed tetra live?
The Flag-tailed tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America; Amazon and Orinoco basins and the Guianas.
How big does the Flag-tailed tetra get?
The Flag-tailed tetra grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Flag-tailed tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Flag-tailed tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Flag-tailed tetra edible?
The Flag-tailed 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 Moenkhausia
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Flag-tailed tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Flag-tailed tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.