Fin's Fish Guide
The Longfin tetra (Brycinus longipinnis) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Fresh water of West Africa, in clear, flowing streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
Description
The longfin tetra is a slender, silvery characin of the family Alestidae (African tetras) reaching about 13 cm. The streamlined body has an adipose fin, as in many characins, and shines silvery with a yellowish tinge; the male has a greatly elongated, sickle-shaped dorsal and anal fin, from which the species takes its name. The species comes from the fresh water of West Africa and lives in schools in clear, flowing streams and rivers with vegetated banks. As an omnivore it eats insects, zooplankton, small invertebrates and plant matter at the surface and in the water column. It is a lively, peaceful schooling fish popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longfin tetra?
The Longfin tetra is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, silver African tetra with an adipose fin; the male has a greatly elongated, sickle-shaped dorsal fin.
Where does the Longfin tetra live?
The Longfin tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of West Africa, in clear, flowing streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
How big does the Longfin tetra get?
The Longfin tetra grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Longfin tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Longfin tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Longfin tetra edible?
The Longfin 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 Brycinus
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Longfin tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longfin tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.