Fin's Fish Guide
The Glass headstander (Roeboides microlepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The glass headstander is a South American characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Paraguay basins. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a translucent, silvery, laterally compressed body with a dark shoulder mark and a spot on the tail base. Characteristically it often swims at an angle, head down. With sharp, outward-pointing teeth it picks scales and skin flakes from other fish and eats small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Glass headstander?
The Glass headstander has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Glass headstander live?
The Glass headstander lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Venezuela
How big does the Glass headstander get?
The Glass headstander grows to a maximum of about 20 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.
More photos
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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.