Characidium dumonti
Characidium dumonti is a tiny freshwater darter native to clear, fast‑flowing streams of the Amazon basin. Growing to only about 5.6 cm, it is prized by anglers for its delicate size and the challenge of targeting such a miniature species.
Family
Crenuchidae
Max Size
5.6 cm
Habitat
freshwater
Climate
tropical
Best Season
Year‑round, with peak activity in the rainy season (December‑April) when insects are abundant
Best Time
Early morning and late afternoon, when surface insects are most active
No distribution map available
Upper Rio Paraná (Mogi Guaçu)
BrazilClear, fast-flowing headwaters of the Rio Paraná where Characidium dumonti thrives among rocky substrates.
Best: December to February
Paraguay River near Asunción
ParaguayMid‑river stretches with moderate flow and abundant leaf litter provide ideal microhabitats for this bottom‑dwelling species.
Best: October to March
Rio Uruguay (Confluence with Río Negro)
UruguayThe confluence zone offers mixed sand‑gravel beds where Characidium dumonti forms dense schools during the warm months.
Best: December to March
Pantanal Floodplain Streams
BrazilSeasonally flooded tributaries host high densities of Characidium dumonti, especially during the rising water period.
Best: November to February
La Plata River Delta (Mar Chiquita)
ArgentinaShallow deltaic channels with fine substrate and abundant insect hatches attract anglers targeting this species.
Best: December to February
Serra do Mar Forest Streams
BrazilMountain streams with clear, oxygen‑rich water and rocky riffles are prime habitats for Characidium dumonti.
Best: December to March
Best bait: Live insect larvae, tiny worms, or daphnia