Fin's Fish Guide
The South American darter (Melanocharacidium dispilomma) is a freshwater fish of the family Crenuchidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The South American darter is a darter characin (Crenuchidae) from South America. The species is small and elongate with a mottled, inconspicuous brown pattern that camouflages it on the bottom. It inhabits the upper reaches of rivers, especially fast-flowing creeks with a stony or gravel bottom. There it rests much on the bottom and snaps small invertebrates and insect larvae. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the South American darter?
The South American darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Blotched bottom camouflage; often rests on the bottom of fast-flowing creeks.
Where does the South American darter live?
The South American darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America; fast-flowing upper reaches of rivers.
How big does the South American darter get?
The South American darter grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the South American darter dangerous to humans?
No, the South American darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the South American darter edible?
The South American darter is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the South American darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the South American darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Crenuchidae
Want the complete picture on the South American darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the South American darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.