Fin's Fish Guide
The Panama tetra (Astyanax ruberrimus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Central America and northwestern South America; rivers, creeks and pools.
Description
The Panama tetra is a Central American characin of the family Characidae from Panama and north-western South America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, silvery body with reddish tints in the fins and a dark spot on the tail base. It lives in schools in rivers, creeks and pools, from clear to somewhat turbid water. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, small invertebrates, algae, seeds and plant matter. Astyanax tetras are robust, adaptable fishes that are often abundant. As a small schooling fish it is prey for larger fishes and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Panama tetra?
The Panama tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Reddish fin tints and a caudal peduncle blotch; robust, adaptable small schooling fish.
Where does the Panama tetra live?
The Panama tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America and northwestern South America; rivers, creeks and pools.
How big does the Panama tetra get?
The Panama tetra grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Panama tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Panama tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Panama tetra edible?
The Panama tetra is rarely eaten.
More photos
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.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Astyanax
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.