Fin's Fish Guide
The Red eye tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The red eye tetra is a characin from South America, occurring in the Parana, Paraguay, Uruguay and Sao Francisco basins. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a silvery body with a conspicuous red upper rim of the eye and a black band at the tail base; behind the dorsal fin it carries an adipose fin. It lives in schools in fresh water and feeds on worms, insects, crustaceans and plant matter. The eggs are scattered freely. It is a very popular aquarium fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red eye tetra?
The Red eye tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Bright red upper edge of the eye; black band on the caudal base; small adipose fin
Where does the Red eye tetra live?
The Red eye tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America
How big does the Red eye tetra get?
The Red eye tetra grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Red eye tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Red eye 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.
Is the Red eye tetra edible?
The Red eye 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 Moenkhausia
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Red eye tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red eye tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.