Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver tetra (Ctenobrycon hauxwellianus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 8 cm.
South America; calm to moderately flowing rivers, creeks and pools of the Amazon basin and surrounding area.
Description
The silver tetra is a South American characin of the family Characidae from the Amazon and surrounding drainages. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silver-shining body with a spot on the tail base. It lives in schools in quiet to moderately flowing rivers, creeks and pools. As an omnivore it feeds on insects, small invertebrates, algae and plant matter. It is an active, robust schooling fish popular in the aquarium. Owing to its modest size it is prey for larger fishes and 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; active, robust shoaling fish.
Where does the Silver tetra live?
The Silver tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America; calm to moderately flowing rivers, creeks and pools of the Amazon basin and surrounding area.
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 not usually eaten.
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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.