Fin's Fish Guide
The Glass tetra (Leptagoniates steindachneri) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The glass tetra is a small characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a deep, strongly translucent body through which the spine and organs are visible, with a silvery ventral edge. As an open-water fish it swims in schools in clear rivers and eats small zooplankton and larvae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Glass tetra?
The Glass tetra has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Glass tetra live?
The Glass tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Ecuador, Peru
How big does the Glass tetra get?
The Glass tetra grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Glass tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Glass 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
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Glass tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Glass tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.