Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellowtail tetra (Alestopetersius caudalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Alestidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The yellowtail tetra is a small characin of the African tetra family (Alestidae) from the Congo basin. The species reaches only about 6 cm and has a spindle-shaped, laterally compressed and silvery body with a conspicuously yellow tail. It lives in schools in the open water column of brooks and rivers and searches for small invertebrates and plant matter. Males have more elaborate fins than females. Like other characiforms it bears an adipose fin. The species is popular in the aquarium hobby and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowtail tetra?
The Yellowtail tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly yellow tail and an adipose fin; males with more elaborately developed fins.
Where does the Yellowtail tetra live?
The Yellowtail tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Freshwater of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Yellowtail tetra get?
The Yellowtail tetra grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Yellowtail tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellowtail 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.
Is the Yellowtail tetra edible?
The Yellowtail tetra is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alestopetersius
More from the family Alestidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellowtail tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellowtail tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.