Fin's Fish Guide
The Ruby tetra (Markiana geayi) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The ruby tetra is a South American characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the Orinoco basin in South America. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a reddish tinge on the fins and a spot on the tail base. As a schooling fish it swims in clear rivers and pools and snaps at insects, larvae, algae and small zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ruby tetra?
The Ruby tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Ruby tetra live?
The Ruby tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Venezuela
How big does the Ruby tetra get?
The Ruby tetra grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Ruby tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Ruby 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
Want the complete picture on the Ruby tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ruby 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 Markiana
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Ruby tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ruby tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.