noun
- plural of characid; small to medium-sized freshwater fish of the family Characidae, native to South America and Africa, including tetras and piranhas
Usage: zoology; ichthyology
Examples
- The aquarium contained several species of characids, including neon tetras and cardinal tetras.
- Characids are popular among hobbyist fish keepers because of their vibrant colors.
- Many characids are schooling fish that prefer to live in groups.
- The pet store specializes in South American characids and other tropical fish.
- Piranhas are among the most notorious characids in the wild.