Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver sabretooth tetra (Cynopotamus argenteus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The silver sabretooth tetra is a predatory characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the La Plata basin in southern South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has an elongate, bright-silvery, laterally compressed body with an upturned mouth and prominent canine teeth. As an open-water predator it hunts smaller fish in rivers and lakes. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver sabretooth tetra?
The Silver sabretooth tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Silver sabretooth tetra live?
The Silver sabretooth tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay
How big does the Silver sabretooth tetra get?
The Silver sabretooth tetra grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Silver sabretooth tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver sabretooth 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cynopotamus
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Silver sabretooth tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver sabretooth tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.