Etymology Hyphessobrycon: from the Ancient Greek υπελάσσων (hyphesson), meaning ‘of lesser stature’, used as a prefix in this case, plus the generic name Brycon. amapaensis: named for the state of Amapá in northeastern Brazil. Classification Order: Characiformes Family: Characidae Distribution This species is limited to a small region in the northeastern Brazilian state of Amapá, specifically within the rio Preto […]
Synonyms Nannostomus marginatus picturatus Hoedeman, 1954 Etymology The name “Nannostomus” is derived from the Latin word “nannus”, which means “small”, and the Greek word “stoma”, which means “mouth”. This name refers to the small mouthparts of the species belonging to this genus. The species name “marginatus” is also derived from Latin, meaning “with a distinct margin, […]
Synonyms Poeciliobrycon erythrurus (Eigenmann, 1909); Poeciliobrycon vittatus Ahl, 1934; Cyprinodon amazona Eigenmann, 1894 (questionable, possibly conspecific with Nannostomus marginatus) Etymology Nannostomus is derived from the Latin word “nannus,” meaning “small,” and the Greek word “stoma,” meaning “mouth,” which alludes to the diminutive mouthparts of the species in this genus. Trifasciatus is composed of the Latin prefix “tri-,” which means “three,” and […]
Etymology Iguanodectes: from the Taino iwana, meaning ‘lizard’, and Ancient Greek déktés, meaning ‘biter’. geisleri: named for German aquarist Dr. Rolf Geisler (1925-2012). Classification Order: Characiformes Family: Iguanodectidae Distribution This species has been documented in several waterways, including the rivers Madeira and Negro in the Brazilian Amazon basin, as well as the upper Río Orinoco system in Venezuela. The location […]
There is still some debate about the identity, as well as the correct spelling, of the species name of this relatively subtly colored but lovely cichlid. The “Acara” part of one of the common names reflects the fact that this fish is still also referred to as Aequidens portalegrensis in some quarters.
This relatively large fish has distinctive cheek markings that are similar to those found in the Blue Acara. However, the head, particularly in males, is considerably larger, with a noticeable “forehead.” The Gold Saum and Silver Saum have golden/reddish and whitish/silvery edges to the dorsal and caudal fins respectively.
Despite the Blue Acara’s long history in the hobby (it was first introduced into Europe in 1906), there is still considerable debate regarding its correct scientific name. As a result, the various names given above are often used interchangeably, with some authorities regarding the Colombian Blue Acaras as valid species in their own rights – A. latifrons, A. cf. latifrons or A. caeruleopunctalus – and the others as A. pulcher. There are certainly observable differences between these, but some other authorities believe them to be insufficiently significant to warrant separation.
Wrasses, 114, 115 Xenomysrus nigri (African knifefish), 97 Xenopoecilus, 56 Xiphophorus (platy), 48 Xiphophorus (swordtail), 48 Xiphophorus hdleri (swordtail), 48, 50, 51 Xiphophorus maculatus (platy), 48, 50 Xiphophorus vdriatus (platy), 48, 51 Zebrasoma flavescens (yellow tang), 113 Zebrasoma vdiferum (striped sailfin tang), 113
In these regions cichlids are not the dominant predators and are rarely found in open water (where they would be easy prey for other fishes, birds, and reptiles) ; instead they occupy the margins of permanent bodies of water – lakes, rivers, and streams – where they can shelter among overhanging vegetation, roots, and fallen trees. Some are found beneath floating islands of plant debris. Most prefer still or slow-moving water, and do not appreciate bright lighting.