Fin's Fish Guide
The Keeled characin (Triportheus brachipomus) is a freshwater fish of the family Triportheidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The Keeled characin is a small South American characin (Triportheidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a strongly keeled, forward-projecting chest and long pectoral fins with which it can briefly glide out of the water. As a schooling fish it swims near the surface and eats insects, crustaceans and plant material. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Keeled characin?
The Keeled characin has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Keeled characin live?
The Keeled characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela
How big does the Keeled characin get?
The Keeled characin grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Keeled characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Keeled characin 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
Same genus Triportheus
More from the family Triportheidae
Want the complete picture on the Keeled characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Keeled characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.