Fin's Fish Guide
The Guyana tetra (Hemigrammus guyanensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The Guyana tetra is a very small characin of the family Characidae from northern South America. The species reaches only about 3.5 to 4 cm and has a translucent, spindle-shaped body with the silvery sheen typical of the genus Hemigrammus. It lives in counter-current zones and flooded parts of creeks where the bottom is covered with fallen leaves and alluvial deposits. In schools it searches for small zooplankton and fine invertebrates. Like many characiforms it bears an adipose fin between the dorsal and caudal fins. The species has no commercial value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Guyana tetra?
The Guyana tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Has an adipose fin; translucent little body of leaf-covered streams.
Where does the Guyana tetra live?
The Guyana tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of northern South America, including the Guianas.
How big does the Guyana tetra get?
The Guyana tetra grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Guyana tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Guyana 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.
Is the Guyana tetra edible?
The Guyana tetra 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 Hemigrammus
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Guyana tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Guyana tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.