Fin's Fish Guide
The Swordtail characin (Corynopoma riisei) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The swordtail characin is a small characin from fresh water of northern South America, in Colombia, Venezuela and Trinidad. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, silvery body. Remarkably, the male bears a long, paddle-tipped stalk on the gill cover that he waves like a 'flag' before the female during courtship. It schools in clear streams and feeds on insects, small zooplankton and algae. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Swordtail characin?
The Swordtail characin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Male with a long stalked 'flag' on the operculum for courtship
Where does the Swordtail characin live?
The Swordtail characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Northern South America
How big does the Swordtail characin get?
The Swordtail characin grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Swordtail characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Swordtail characin 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 Swordtail characin edible?
The Swordtail characin is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Swordtail characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Swordtail characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.