Characiformes

The Characiformes are an order of freshwater fish, commonly known as characins. These fish are primarily found in Central and South America, with a smaller presence in tropical Africa. A key distinguishing feature of characins is their toothed jaws and, typically, an adipose fin located on their back.1

Characins exhibit a wide range of forms, from small, blind cave fish to larger, predatory tigerfish and piranhas. Their diets vary from herbivorous to carnivorous. Many species are popular in aquariums due to their small size, vibrant colors, and lively nature, including various types of tetras. Some authorities classify these fish into distinct families, while others group them under the single family Characidae.12