Fin's Fish Guide
The Moenkhaus's tetra (Knodus moenkhausii) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
Moenkhaus's tetra is a small characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the Parana-Paraguay basin in South America. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a shiny lateral stripe and a dark tail-base spot. It lives in active schools in clear streams and rivers and eats small insects, larvae, algae and detritus. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Moenkhaus's tetra?
The Moenkhaus's tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Moenkhaus's tetra live?
The Moenkhaus's tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Brazil, Paraguay, Peru
How big does the Moenkhaus's tetra get?
The Moenkhaus's tetra grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Moenkhaus's tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Moenkhaus's tetra 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 Knodus
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Moenkhaus's tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Moenkhaus's tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.