Fin's Fish Guide
The Hi-fin congo tetra (Brachypetersius altus) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
Description
The hi-fin congo tetra is a slender, shiny African characin of the family Alestidae reaching about 7 cm. The laterally compressed body has large, shiny scales, an adipose fin (as in many characins) and an iridescent blue-yellow sheen on the flank; males often have somewhat extended fins. The species comes from the Congo basin in Central Africa and lives in schools in clear, flowing rivers and creeks. 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. Because of its handsome sheen it occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby, and in the wild it is a prey fish for larger species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hi-fin congo tetra?
The Hi-fin congo tetra has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, shiny small African characin with large scales, an adipose fin and an iridescent sheen on the flank.
Where does the Hi-fin congo tetra live?
The Hi-fin congo tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in clear, flowing rivers and creeks.
How big does the Hi-fin congo tetra get?
The Hi-fin congo tetra grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Hi-fin congo tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Hi-fin congo tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hi-fin congo tetra edible?
The Hi-fin congo 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 Brachypetersius
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Hi-fin congo tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hi-fin congo tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.