Fin's Fish Guide
The Georgia tetra (Moenkhausia georgiae) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Fresh water of northern South America (the Guianas), in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
Description
The Georgia tetra is a small, silvery characin of the family Characidae (true tetras) reaching about 6 cm. The slender, laterally compressed body has an adipose fin (as in many characins) and a dark spot on the tail base. The species comes from the fresh water of the Guianas in northern South America and lives in schools in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks. As an omnivore it eats insects, zooplankton, algae and plant matter, taken in the water column and at the surface. In the rainy season it spawns among the water plants. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Georgia tetra?
The Georgia tetra is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, silvery tetra with an adipose fin and a dark blotch on the caudal peduncle; a peaceful schooling fish.
Where does the Georgia tetra live?
The Georgia tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of northern South America (the Guianas), in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
How big does the Georgia tetra get?
The Georgia tetra grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Georgia tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Georgia tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Georgia tetra edible?
The Georgia tetra is not usually eaten.
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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 Georgia tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Georgia tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.