Fin's Fish Guide
The Schouteden's tetra (Brycinus schoutedeni) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
Brycinus schoutedeni is an African characin of the family Alestidae from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a streamlined, laterally compressed, silvery body and reaches about 22 cm. It lives in schools in the open water column of rivers and creeks and feeds as an omnivore on small invertebrates, insects, algae and plant matter. Owing to its abundance the species is an important prey for larger predatory fishes. Like many African alestids it is a fast, active swimmer in clear, flowing water and is caught locally in subsistence fisheries.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Schouteden's tetra?
The Schouteden's tetra has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Fast schooling characin of clear, flowing water in the Congo basin.
Where does the Schouteden's tetra live?
The Schouteden's tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Rivers and creeks of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Schouteden's tetra get?
The Schouteden's tetra grows to a maximum of about 22 cm.
Is the Schouteden's tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Schouteden'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.
Is the Schouteden's tetra edible?
The Schouteden's 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 Brycinus
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Schouteden's tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Schouteden's tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.