Fin's Fish Guide
The Roeboides affinis is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Central America to northern South America (precise distribution uncertain).
Description
Roeboides affinis is a characin of the family Characidae from Central America and northern South America, though the precise range is uncertain. The species reaches about 11 cm and has a semi-transparent, silvery body with a dark shoulder spot. Characteristic are the teeth that partly protrude outside the mouth. With these it is specialised in lepidophagy: it knocks scales off other fishes with a thrust of the head and eats them, alongside small invertebrates. It often holds itself at an angle in the water. Owing to its small size the species has no culinary value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Roeboides affinis?
The Roeboides affinis has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Semi-transparent characin with teeth outside the mouth; specialised scale-eater (lepidophagy).
Where does the Roeboides affinis live?
The Roeboides affinis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America to northern South America (precise distribution uncertain).
How big does the Roeboides affinis get?
The Roeboides affinis grows to a maximum of about 11 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Roeboides affinis dangerous to humans?
No, the Roeboides affinis is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Roeboides affinis edible?
The Roeboides affinis is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Roeboides
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Roeboides affinis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Roeboides affinis is one of 12,519 species in the app.