Characidium roesseli
Characidium roesseli is a diminutive freshwater minnow reaching only about 3.1 cm in length. It inhabits clear streams and small rivers, often hiding among leaf litter and sand. Anglers target it mainly for sport and observation rather than food.
Family
Crenuchidae
Max Size
3.1 cm
Habitat
freshwater
Climate
tropical
Best Season
Spring and summer (April‑August)
Best Time
Early morning and late afternoon
No distribution map available
Rio Negro (Manaus region)
BrazilWide, slow‑moving blackwater stretches near Manaus teeming with Characidium roesseli; easy access from the city and abundant insect hatches make it a beginner‑friendly hotspot.
Best: June‑October
Paraguay River (Pantanal)
BrazilPrime floodplain sections of the Paraguay River in the Pantanal host dense leaf litter habitats where the species thrives; moderate currents require some casting skill.
Best: December‑February
Marañón River (Upper Amazon)
PeruRemote tributary with clear, fast‑flowing riffles; reaching the spot demands a multi‑day trek, but the pristine environment yields healthy populations.
Best: March‑May
Lake Maracaibo
VenezuelaLarge freshwater lake with extensive marginal vegetation; the species gathers near the shallow bays during the rainy season, making it an accessible yet productive site.
Best: July‑September
Orinoco River (Upper Basin)
ColombiaClear, meandering stretches of the upper Orinoco provide ideal substrate and cover; moderate boat access and variable currents suit anglers with some experience.
Best: April‑June
São Francisco River (Upper Basin)
BrazilRocky riffles and submerged roots in the upper São Francisco host abundant Characidium roesseli; reachable by road and small craft, but currents can be challenging.
Best: September‑November
Best bait: Tiny live worms, daphnia or micro insects