Fin's Fish Guide
The Comma tetra (Moenkhausia comma) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The comma tetra is a characin (Characidae) from South America. The species is small, slender and silvery with a dark shoulder spot and a stripe on the tail base. It lives in schools in the middle and upper water layers of quiet streams and rivers, often among vegetation. As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates, insect larvae, algae and plant matter. It is a prey fish for larger species. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Comma tetra?
The Comma tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Dark shoulder blotch and caudal stripe; schooling characin from the Amazon and Orinoco.
Where does the Comma tetra live?
The Comma tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America; calm streams and rivers.
How big does the Comma tetra get?
The Comma tetra grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Comma tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Comma tetra is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Comma tetra edible?
The Comma 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 Moenkhausia
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Comma tetra?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Comma tetra is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone