Fin's Fish Guide
The South American darter (Characidium steindachneri) is a freshwater fish of the family Crenuchidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
Steindachner's South American darter is a small characin from northern South America, known from the Amazon and Orinoco basins and the freshwater drainages of Guyana. It grows to only about 4 cm and has a slender, streamlined body characteristic of the South American darters. A bottom-dweller, it stays among sand and stone in clear, flowing fresh water and feeds on small invertebrates. The fish is inconspicuous and of no fisheries interest. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
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 vertical stripes pattern. Slender bottom-dwelling darter body in clear flowing water
Where does the South American darter live?
The South American darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northern South America
How big does the South American darter get?
The South American darter grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the South American darter dangerous to humans?
No, the South American darter 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.
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
Same genus Characidium
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.