Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant tetra (Astyanax maximus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The Giant tetra is a small characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the western Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, silvery body, often with a dark longitudinal stripe or a spot on the tail base. As a schooling fish it swims in streams and rivers and eats small insects, larvae, plant material and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant tetra?
The Giant tetra has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Giant tetra live?
The Giant tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Colombia, Peru, Venezuela
How big does the Giant tetra get?
The Giant tetra grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Giant tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Astyanax
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.