Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted sardinha (Cyphocharax notatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Curimatidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The spotted sardinha is a small characin relative from fresh water of northern South America, including the Amazon and Orinoco basins. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a streamlined, silvery body with toothless jaws and often a dark blotch on the tail base. As a bottom-feeder it schools in rivers and floodplains and feeds on detritus, algae and microscopic benthic life. It is a local bait and forage fish. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted sardinha?
The Spotted sardinha has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Toothless jaws and a dark caudal blotch; schooling detritus feeder
Where does the Spotted sardinha live?
The Spotted sardinha lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Spotted sardinha get?
The Spotted sardinha grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Spotted sardinha dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted sardinha 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 Spotted sardinha edible?
The Spotted sardinha is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cyphocharax
More from the family Curimatidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted sardinha?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted sardinha is one of 12,519 species in the app.