Fin's Fish Guide
The Longhead characin (Argonectes longiceps) is a freshwater fish of the family Hemiodontidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The longhead characin is a slender characin from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 26 cm and has an elongate, silvery, laterally compressed body with a conspicuously long head and toothless jaws. It schools in open water of large rivers and uses its fine gill rakers to filter small zooplankton and detritus from the water. The fish is harmless to humans and is a local bait fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longhead characin?
The Longhead characin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Long head and toothless jaws; schooling plankton filterer
Where does the Longhead characin live?
The Longhead characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Longhead characin get?
The Longhead characin grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Longhead characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Longhead 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.
Is the Longhead characin edible?
The Longhead characin is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Hemiodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Longhead characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longhead characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.