Iguanodectes spilurus (GÜNTHER, 1864) Green Line Lizard Tetra

Synonyms

Piabuca spilurus Günther, 1864; Iguanodectes tenuis Cope, 1872

Etymology

Iguanodectes: from the Taino iwana, meaning ‘lizard’, and Ancient Greek déktés, meaning ‘biter’.
spilurus: from the Ancient Greek σπῖλος (spilos), meaning ‘spot’, and οὐρά (oura), meaning ‘tail’, in reference to the dark marking on the caudal-fin.

Classification

Order: Characiformes
Family: Iguanodectidae

Distribution

This species is found across a vast region encompassing the Amazon, Orinoco, Essequibo, and Tocantins river systems, spanning across several countries including Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, and Guyana. Its type locality is in the Amazon River drainage, specifically the Rio Cupai (or Rio Cupari) in the Tapajós basin, located in Pará State, Brazil.

Peru

Peru is a beautiful country located in the western part of South America, bordered by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, Chile to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It has a rich and diverse culture, a fascinating history, and stunning natural landscapes that make it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

History

The history of Peru dates back to pre-Columbian times when several indigenous cultures, such as the Moche, Chavin, and Inca, thrived in the region. The Inca Empire, which existed from the 13th to the 16th century, was one of the largest and most powerful empires in the world, spanning from present-day Colombia to Chile. The empire was known for its advanced agricultural techniques, impressive architecture, and well-organized society.

In 1532, Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro arrived in Peru and conquered the Inca Empire. The Spanish introduced Christianity and established a colonial government, which lasted until Peru declared its independence in 1821. In the years that followed, Peru faced political instability, economic struggles, and social inequality, but has since made significant progress towards democracy and economic growth.

Culture

Peru’s culture is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. The country has a rich artistic heritage that includes music, dance, literature, and visual arts. The Peruvian people are proud of their cultural traditions, and festivals are an important part of their social life. Some of the most popular festivals include Inti Raymi, which celebrates the winter solstice, and the Carnival of Oruro, which features vibrant costumes and music.

Peruvian cuisine is renowned for its diversity and unique flavors. The country’s cuisine is a fusion of indigenous ingredients, Spanish cooking techniques, and African and Asian influences. Some of the most famous dishes include ceviche, a dish made from raw fish marinated in citrus juices, and lomo saltado, a stir-fry dish that combines beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries.

Nature

Peru is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. The country has three main regions: the coast, the Andes mountains, and the Amazon rainforest. Each region has its own distinct ecosystems, wildlife, and natural wonders.

The coast is a long stretch of sandy beaches and arid desert landscapes that offer perfect conditions for surfing, sandboarding, and sunbathing. The Andes mountains, which run through the center of Peru, offer some of the most stunning vistas in the world, including the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, the world’s highest tropical mountain range. The Amazon rainforest, which covers over 60% of the country, is home to a vast array of wildlife, including jaguars, macaws, and anacondas.

Tourism

Peru is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. The country’s tourism industry is centered around its historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca citadel located in the Andes mountains; Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake; and the Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert sands.

Peru also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and bird watching, as well as opportunities to sample its delicious cuisine and immerse oneself in its rich cultural heritage. The country has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and tour operators catering to visitors from around the world.

Conclusion

Peru is a country with a rich and fascinating history, a vibrant and diverse culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the ancient ruins of the Inca Empire to the bustling cities of Lima and Cusco, there is something for everyone in Peru. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax on the beach, Peru offers a wealth of experiences and opportunities.

However, like many developing countries, Peru still faces significant challenges in terms of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. The government and civil society are working hard to address these issues and promote sustainable development, but much more needs to be done.

Despite these challenges, Peru remains a unique and captivating destination that captures the hearts and imaginations of visitors from around the world. Its people, landscapes, and culture offer a glimpse into a rich and complex world that is both ancient and modern, traditional and innovative. Whether you are traveling to Peru for the first time or returning for another visit, there is always something new to discover and explore.

Iguanodectes spilurus (GÜNTHER, 1864) Green Line Lizard Tetra

Habitat

There is limited information available regarding the specific habitat preferences of this species. However, it is believed to inhabit minor tributaries, smaller rivers, oxbows, and flooded forests, rather than main river channels.

In the Orinoco river system, this species is often found in areas known as “morichals”, which typically have clear, transparent water and sandy substrates. These areas may also contain dense growths of aquatic plants or riparian vegetation, which provide shelter for the fish.

In other regions, this species has been collected from both flowing blackwater habitats and still floodplain lakes. For example, in the Rio Manuripi in Bolivia, Iguanodectes spilurus has been found coexisting with numerous other species including Carnegiella myersi, C. strigata, Hemigrammus unilineatus, H. lunatus, H. neptunus, Hyphessobrycon pando, Moenkhausia sanctaefilominae, M. coletti, M. oligolepis, M. dichroura, Gymnocorymbus thayeri, Nannostomus trifasciatus, Paragoniates alburnus, Prionobrama filigera, and Pyrrhulina vittata.

Maximum Standard Length

The largest specimen known to date measured 101.5 mm.

Aquarium Size

An aquarium with surface dimensions of 120 ∗ 45 cm or similar should be the smallest considered.

It is advised to find a filter which has a water flow between 4-5 times the volume of your aquarium. At a volume of 243 litres, the filter we recommend can be found here.

Other aquarium filters which have been recommended highly by customers in your area can be found here.

Maintenance

Probably most-suited to an arrangement comprising a sandy substrate plus some driftwood roots and branches, although it should also thrive in a planted set-up.

It goes without saying that this species is sensitive to poor water conditions and should never be introduced to biologically-immature aquaria.

Water Conditions

Temperature: 20 – 28 °C
pH: 5.0 – 7.5
Hardness: 18 – 215 ppm

Diet

It is believed that Iguanodectes spilurus is an omnivorous species that feeds on a variety of food sources in the wild, including small invertebrates, crustaceans, filamentous algae, and fallen fruit.

In an aquarium setting, this species can survive on a diet of dried foods, but it is recommended to offer a varied menu that includes live and frozen chironomid larvae (bloodworm), mosquito larvae, Daphnia, Moina, and other similar foods. A varied diet will help to ensure that the fish receive all the necessary nutrients to maintain good health and vitality.

Behaviour and Compatibility

This species is known for its peaceful temperament, making it an excellent addition to a community aquarium with other compatible species. It is best kept alongside other similarly-sized characids, gasteropelecids, lebiasinids, callichthyid or loricariid catfish, and non-predatory cichlids.

To ensure a harmonious environment, it is recommended to purchase a mixed-sex group of at least 8-10 individuals and include other schooling fish to provide a sense of security. This will also create a more natural-looking spectacle, and allow for interesting interactions between rival males as they compete for female attention or establish a hierarchical position within the group.

It is advisable to purchase more females than males, if possible, to prevent any one individual from being excessively harassed. Overall, with proper care and appropriate tank mates, this species can thrive in a community aquarium setting, and provide an engaging and entertaining display.

Sexual Dimorphism

Nuptial males develop hooks and lappets on the anterior anal-fin rays.

Notes

This particular species of tetra is commonly known as the “slender tetra”, “spindle tetra”, or “iguana tetra”, and it is the most widely distributed member of the Iguanodectes genus.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of this species is the translucent dorsal and anal fins, as well as the lack of a red lateral stripe on the body. Additionally, this species has a prominent dark marking on the caudal fin.

The Iguanodectes genus is relatively small, with less than ten member species, and there have been no new additions since the early 1990s. It is classified within the family Iguanodectidae, which also includes the related genus Piabucus. Piabucus is differentiated from Iguanodectes by its possession of enlarged pectoral fins and a prominent pectoral keel.

Prior to phylogenetic analyses, this grouping was considered to represent a subfamily, Iguanodectinae. However, its monophyly was evidenced much earlier, and all iguanodectids possess the following characteristics: an elongated body, teeth that are basally contracted and multicuspid, united gill membranes that are free from the isthmus, a posterior end of the maxilla that does not extend to the eye, a dorsal fin that is normally positioned posterior to midbody (except in Iguanodectes geisleri), and a long anal fin (except in I. geisleri).

In addition, there is a process on the internal face of the dentary, the first proximal anal-fin pterygiophore is expanded and recurved posteriorly (except in I. geisleri), and the anterior portion of the posterior swimbladder chamber is thinner than the posterior portion. These characteristics distinguish the Iguanodectes genus from other tetras.

References

Günther, A., 1864 – Catalogue of the fishes in the British Museum v. 5: i-xxii + 1-455
Catalogue of the Physostomi, containing the families Siluridae, Characinidae, Haplochitonidae, Sternoptychidae, Scopelidae, Stomiatidae in the collection of the British Museum.
Cope, E. D., 1872 – Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia v. 23: 250-294, Pls. 3-16
On the fishes of the Ambyiacu River.
Géry, J., 1977 – T. F. H. Publications, Neptune City, New Jersey: 1-672
Characoids of the World.
Hein, G., 2009 – Bulletin of Fish Biology 10(1/2): 1-10
Hyphessobrycon pando sp. n., a new rosy tetra from northern Bolivia (Teleostei, Characiformes, Characidae).
Mirande, J. M., 2010 – Neotropical Ichthyology 9(1): 385-568
Phylogeny of the family Characidae (Teleostei: Characiformes) from characters to taxonomy.
Moreira, C. R., 2002 – Unpublished Master Dissertation, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo: 276 p.
Relações Filogenéticas em Iguanodectinae (Teleostei; Characiformes; Characidae).
Ortega, H. and R. P. Vari, 1986 – Smithsonian Contributions to Zoology No. 437: iii + 25 p.
Annotated checklist of the freshwater fishes of Peru.
Reis, R. E., S. O. Kullander and C. J. Ferraris, Jr. (eds), 2003 – EDIPUCRS, Porto Alegre: i-xi + 1-729
Check list of the freshwater fishes of South and Central America. CLOFFSCA.
Taphorn, D. C., 1992 – Biollania Edición Especial – No. 4. Monografias Cientificas del Museo de Ciencias Naturales, UNELLEZ – Guanara, estado Portuguesa, Venezuela: 1-537
The characiform fishes of the Apure River drainage, Venezuela.