Fin's Fish Guide
Head-and-taillight tetra
The Head-and-taillight tetra (Hemigrammus ocellifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Fresh water of northern South America (the Amazon and Guiana region), in calm creeks, pools and swamps.
Description
The head-and-taillight tetra is a small, semi-transparent characin of the family Characidae (true tetras) reaching about 5 cm. The silvery body has an adipose fin and owes its name to two shiny, coppery-red spots - one above the eye and one on the tail base - that light up like a headlight and taillight in side light. The species lives in dense schools in quiet creeks, pools and swamps of the Amazon and Guianas region of South America. As an omnivore it eats small zooplankton, insects, algae and plant matter. In the rainy season it spawns among fine water plants. Because of its conspicuous 'lights' and peaceful nature it is a classic, popular aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Head-and-taillight tetra?
The Head-and-taillight tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, translucent tetra with a shiny, copper-red blotch by the eye and on the caudal peduncle, which light up like little lamps.
Where does the Head-and-taillight tetra live?
The Head-and-taillight tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of northern South America (the Amazon and Guiana region), in calm creeks, pools and swamps.
How big does the Head-and-taillight tetra get?
The Head-and-taillight tetra grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Head-and-taillight tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Head-and-taillight tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Head-and-taillight tetra edible?
The Head-and-taillight 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 Head-and-taillight tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Head-and-taillight tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.