Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver tetra (Ctenobrycon spilurus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The silver tetra is a characin (Characidae) from northern South America. The species has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silvery body with a dark spot on the tail base. It inhabits calm waters and lives in schools. It is a voracious omnivore that feeds mainly on zooplankton, but also eats plants, worms and small invertebrates. It is a popular aquarium fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver tetra?
The Silver tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep, silvery body with a blotch on the caudal peduncle; voracious shoaling aquarium tetra.
Where does the Silver tetra live?
The Silver tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Northern South America; quiet waters.
How big does the Silver tetra get?
The Silver tetra grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Silver tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Silver tetra edible?
The Silver 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 Ctenobrycon
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Silver tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.