Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowback tetra (Moenkhausia chrysargyrea) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Fresh water of northern South America, in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
Description
The yellowback tetra is a small, silvery characin of the family Characidae (true tetras) reaching about 12 cm. The slender, laterally compressed body has a golden sheen over the back, an adipose fin (as in many characins) and a dark spot on the tail base. The species comes from the fresh water of northern South America and lives in schools in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks. As an omnivore it eats insects, zooplankton, algae and plant matter, taken in the water column and at the surface. In the rainy season it spawns among the water plants. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowback tetra?
The Yellowback tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, silvery South American tetra with a golden tinge on the back, an adipose fin and a dark blotch on the caudal peduncle.
Where does the Yellowback tetra live?
The Yellowback tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of northern South America, in clear streams and rivers with vegetated banks.
How big does the Yellowback tetra get?
The Yellowback tetra grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Yellowback tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowback tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellowback tetra edible?
The Yellowback tetra is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Moenkhausia
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellowback tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowback tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.