Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus (Spix & Agassiz, 1829)
Aimara
photo by Pereira, R.C.

Family:  Erythrinidae (Trahiras)
Max. size:  28.5 cm SL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 520.0 g
Environment:  pelagic; freshwater; pH range: 5.59999990463257 - 7.80000019073486; dH range: 30
Distribution:  Central and South America: São Francisco, Amazon, Paraná, Orinoco and Magdalena River basins, and coastal rivers in Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.
Diagnosis:  Opercular ocellus present.
Biology:  Inhabits swamps and creeks with little current (Ref. 12225), as well as in flooded savannas (Ref. 27188). Regularly goes to the surface of the water to breathe. Can survive long periods out of the water. This behavior of breathing air at the surface makes the fish vulnerable to predation by electric eels (Ref. 27188). Is a predaceous omnivore of open waters. Feeds on aquatic invertebrates and to lesser degree, on fish. Specimens measuring 16 cm were found to be mature (Ref. 12225).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 07 November 2018 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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