The Black morpho tetra (Poecilocharax weitzmani) is a freshwater fish of the family Crenuchidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The black morpho tetra is a small, colourful characin from the western Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 4 cm and has a dark body with a broad, iridescent blue-green lateral band and red tones in the fins; males have large, fan-shaped fins. It lives in calm, blackwater forest brooks with leaf litter and eats small zooplankton and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans, prized but difficult in the aquarium trade, and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black morpho tetra?
The Black morpho tetra has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Black morpho tetra live?
The Black morpho tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Black morpho tetra get?
The Black morpho tetra grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Black morpho tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Black morpho tetra is harmless to humans.
Is the Black morpho tetra edible?
The Black morpho tetra is not usually eaten.
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Crenuchidae
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