Fin's Fish Guide
The Glass tetra (Moenkhausia oligolepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Fresh water of northern South America, in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
Description
The glass tetra is a small, silvery characin of the family Characidae (true tetras) reaching about 10 cm. The slender body has an adipose fin (as in many characins), a black spot on the tail base and a striking red-gold upper half of the eye, which gives the species its charm. It comes from the fresh water of northern South America and lives in schools in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks. As an omnivore it eats insects, zooplankton, algae and plant matter, taken in the water column and at the surface. In the rainy season it spawns among the water plants. For its size and handsome eyes it is a popular and hardy community aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Glass tetra?
The Glass tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, silvery tetra with a red-golden upper half of the eye, an adipose fin and a black blotch on the caudal peduncle.
Where does the Glass tetra live?
The Glass tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of northern South America, in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
How big does the Glass tetra get?
The Glass tetra grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Glass tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Glass tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Glass tetra edible?
The Glass tetra is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Moenkhausia
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.