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Tyttocharax tambopatensis

Tyttocharax tambopatensis

Tyttocharax tambopatensis© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Tyttocharax tambopatensis is a diminutive freshwater characin native to the clear streams of the upper Amazon basin. Reaching only about 1.6 cm, it is prized by micro‑aquarium hobbyists rather than sport anglers, but can be caught using ultra‑light gear. Its tiny size and shy nature make it a challenge to locate and present the right bait.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Stevardiidae

Max Size

1.6 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Rainy season (December‑March) when water levels rise and the fish are most active

Best Time

Early morning or late evening, when surface insects are abundant

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Tyttocharax tambopatensis

  • Use an ultra‑light spin or fly rod (2‑3 ft) with a 0.5‑1 lb test line to feel any subtle bites.
  • Present micro‑lures such as size‑0 or size‑1 feathered flies, tiny glass beads, or a single micro‑worm on a 2‑inch hook.
  • Target areas with dense overhead vegetation or leaf litter where the fish feed on surface insects and larvae.
  • Keep the retrieval extremely slow; a gentle twitch can trigger a strike from such a timid species.

Top Fishing Locations for Tyttocharax tambopatensis

Rio Negro, Amazon Basin

Brazil
intermediate70% Very Common

A major tributary of the Amazon where Tyttocharax tambopatensis thrives in slow‑moving blackwater channels and flooded forests.

Best: June‑August

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Ecuador
beginner55% Common

Protected wetlands with abundant leaf litter and submerged roots, ideal microhabitats for the species.

Best: March‑May

Upper Orinoco River

Venezuela
expert40% Occasional

Fast‑flowing stretches with rocky outcrops where the fish is present but harder to target due to strong currents.

Best: September‑November

Saramacca River

Suriname
intermediate30% Occasional

Remote blackwater river offering pristine habitats; access requires a small boat and local guide.

Best: December‑February

Upper Tapajós River

Brazil
expert20% Uncommon

Bucket‑list destination deep in the Amazon rainforest; excellent breeding grounds but logistically challenging.

Best: July‑September

Kourou River

French Guiana
beginner65% Common

Accessible river near the coast with clear water and abundant insect hatches that attract the fish.

Best: April‑June

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Tyttocharax tambopatensis

Recommended Equipment

Rod2‑3 ft ultralight spinning or fly rod, fast action
Line0.5‑1 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSize‑0/1 micro flies, tiny bead or micro jig
TechniqueUltra‑light surface micro‑fly or jigging with a subtle twitch

Best bait: Nanosized live larvae, micro‑worms, or diced mosquito larvae