Fin's Fish Guide
The Glass headstander (Roeboides descalvadensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The glass headstander is a characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the Paraguay and Pantanal region in South America. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a translucent, laterally compressed, silvery body with a dark shoulder and tail spot and outward-pointing teeth around the mouth. Remarkably it scrapes scales and skin mucus from other fish and also eats insects and small invertebrates. It often swims slightly head-down. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Glass headstander?
The Glass headstander has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Glass headstander live?
The Glass headstander lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay
How big does the Glass headstander get?
The Glass headstander grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Glass headstander dangerous to humans?
No, the Glass headstander 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 Roeboides
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Glass headstander?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Glass headstander is one of 12,519 species in the app.