[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Characoids – Pink-tailed Chalceus (Chalceus macrolepidotus)

The genus Chalceus has a number of characteristics that place it close to the genus Brycon. In addition, it seems to resemble some Brycinus {Alestes) species. Nelson (whose classification is followed here) does not allocate Brycon to any subfamily of the Characidae, while Brycinus belongs to the subfamily Alestiinae. As a result, the taxonomic position of these large-scaled silvery-bodied tetras must be considered uncertain at this stage. The Pink-tailed Chalceus has pink/red fins, while the closely related C. erythrurus (Yellow-finned Chalceus) from the Amazon basin (believed by some to be a color form rather than a separate species) has yellow fins, except for the caudal fin, which contains some red.

Other common name

• Pink-tailed Characin

Family

• Characidae

Subfamily

• Uncertain

Distribution

• Amazon basin and the Guianas.

Size

• Up to 9 3/4in (25cm).

Behavior

• Predatory species; should be kept only with similar-sized tankmates.

Diet

• Can be weaned off livefoods and on to substantial deep-frozen or freeze-dried diets and tablet food. Juveniles will accept other formulations.

Aquarium

• Large, well covered, well filtered, with ample swimming space and plants around sides and back. Water chemistry not critical. Temperature range: 73-82 F (23-28 C).

Breeding

• No documented accounts currently available.