Superficially, members of this species are difficult to distinguish from Copeina and Copella species. There are, however, several cranial and dental characteristics that allow distinctions to be made on close examination of preserved specimens. In live specimens perhaps the most easily detectable of these features is that, in Pyrrhulina, the nostrils are very close to each other. Within the genus Pyrrhulina (which, like its close relatives, lacks an adipose fin) confusion still exists regarding the exact number of species or, in some cases, even the full characteristics of single species. The Short-lined Pyrrhulina is one of these, with some of the naturally existing variants possibly constituting subspecies, varieties, or full species in their own right.
Other common name
- Scaleblotch Pyrrhulina
Family
- Lebiasinidae
Subfamily
- Pyrrhulininae
Distribution
- Amazon basin, extending into Colombia (this applies to the Short-lined Pyrrhulina in its broadest sense).
Size
- Up to 3 1/4 (8cm) reported, but usually around 2in (5cm).
Behavior
- May react nervously to external disturbances; prefers to be kept in groups although it does not possess strong shoaling instincts.
Diet
- Predominantly livefoods, but may accept deep-frozen, freeze-dried, and other commercial formulations.
Aquarium
- Spacious, well planted; subdued lighting and dark substratum recommended. Slightly acid, medium-hard water preferred, particularly if tannin-stained. Temperature range: 75-79F (24-26 C).
Breeding
- No documented accounts currently available.
