Fin's Fish Guide
The X-ray tetra (Pristella maxillaris) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Fresh water of northern South America (the Amazon, Orinoco and coastal rivers of the Guianas), in calm creeks, pools and swamps, also in slightly brackish water.
Description
The X-ray tetra is a small, glass-clear characin of the family Characidae (true tetras) reaching about 5 cm. The body is so transparent that the spine and swim bladder show through - hence the name. Behind the gill is a shiny shoulder spot and the dorsal and anal fins carry a striking black-yellow-white marking. The species lives in dense schools in quiet creeks, pools and swamps of northern South America and tolerates even slightly brackish water. As an omnivore it eats small zooplankton, insects, algae and plant matter. In the rainy season it spawns among fine water plants. Because of its transparent body, hardiness and peaceful nature it is a classic, popular aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the X-ray tetra?
The X-ray tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, glass-clear tetra with a shiny shoulder blotch and black-yellow-white marked dorsal and anal fins; the backbone shows through.
Where does the X-ray tetra live?
The X-ray tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of northern South America (the Amazon, Orinoco and coastal rivers of the Guianas), in calm creeks, pools and swamps, also in slightly brackish water.
How big does the X-ray tetra get?
The X-ray tetra grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the X-ray tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the X-ray tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the X-ray tetra edible?
The X-ray tetra is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the X-ray tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the X-ray tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.