Fin's Fish Guide
The Gar characin (Ctenolucius hujeta) is a freshwater fish of the family Ctenoluciidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The gar characin is a slender, pike-like characin from northern South America, in drainages of Colombia, Venezuela and Panama. The species grows to about 26 cm and has an elongate, silvery body with a strongly elongated, toothed snout and far rearward-set dorsal and anal fins. At the surface it lies motionless in ambush and then darts at lightning speed at small fish and insects. The fish is harmless to humans, occurs in the aquarium trade and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gar characin?
The Gar characin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Elongated toothed snout; surface ambush predator
Where does the Gar characin live?
The Gar characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Northern South America
How big does the Gar characin get?
The Gar characin grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Gar characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Gar characin 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 Gar characin edible?
The Gar characin is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ctenolucius
More from the family Ctenoluciidae
Want the complete picture on the Gar characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gar characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.