Fin's Fish Guide
The Sharptooth tetra (Micralestes acutidens) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The sharptooth tetra is a small, silvery African tetra of the family Alestidae (African tetras) reaching about 9 cm. The slender, laterally compressed body has an adipose fin, as in many characins, and a dark stripe on the tail base. The species is one of the most widespread small tetras of Africa and lives in large schools in rivers, lakes and floodplains. As an omnivore it eats insects, zooplankton, seeds and plant matter, taken in the water column and at the surface. In the rainy season it spawns on flooded margins. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sharptooth tetra?
The Sharptooth tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, silvery African tetra with an adipose fin and a dark stripe on the caudal peduncle; forms large shoals.
Where does the Sharptooth tetra live?
The Sharptooth tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of much of Africa, in rivers, lakes and floodplains.
How big does the Sharptooth tetra get?
The Sharptooth tetra grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Sharptooth tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Sharptooth tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sharptooth tetra edible?
The Sharptooth tetra is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Micralestes
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Sharptooth tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sharptooth tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.