Fin's Fish Guide
The Glass headstander (Charax gibbosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The glass headstander is a characin (Characidae) from northern South America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, strongly arched, semi-transparent body through which internal parts are visible. It lives in still and slow-flowing waters of the Amazon and Orinoco basins, often among water plants. Striking is its oblique, head-down swimming posture, characteristic of headstanders. As a small predator it hunts insects, small crustaceans and small fishes. The species is popular in the aquarium hobby and 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 plain pattern. Strongly arched back and a semi-transparent body; swims at an angle with the head down.
Where does the Glass headstander live?
The Glass headstander lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northern South America; standing and slow waters.
How big does the Glass headstander get?
The Glass headstander grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Glass headstander dangerous to humans?
No, the Glass headstander is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Glass headstander edible?
The Glass headstander is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Charax
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.