Fin's Fish Guide
The Southern tetra (Hyphessobrycon meridionalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The southern tetra is a small characin (Characidae) from fresh water of the southern Amazon and adjacent drainages in South America. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body with a reddish tinge and a dark tail-base spot. It lives in schools in clear streams and eats small insects, larvae and plant material. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Southern tetra?
The Southern tetra has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Southern tetra live?
The Southern tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay
How big does the Southern tetra get?
The Southern tetra grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Southern tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Southern 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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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hyphessobrycon
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Southern tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Southern tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.