Fin's Fish Guide
The Panama tetra (Hyphessobrycon panamensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The Panama tetra is a small characin (tetra) from fresh water of Panama and adjacent Central America. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a slender, laterally compressed, silvery body with a shiny lateral stripe and often a dark shoulder spot. It lives in schools in clear streams and creeks and eats small insects, larvae and plant material. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Panama tetra?
The Panama tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Panama tetra live?
The Panama tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama
How big does the Panama tetra get?
The Panama tetra grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Panama tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Panama 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyphessobrycon
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Panama tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Panama tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.