Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Anguilliformes
- Family
- Anostomidae
- Genus
- Rhytiodus
- Species
- microlepis
Habitat
This fish inhabits freshwater rivers and streams in the Amazon basin, preferring slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy bottoms and abundant vegetation. It is commonly found in areas with submerged logs or rocks that provide cover and foraging opportunities.
Diet
Rhytiodus microlepis primarily feeds on algae, detritus, and aquatic plants, using its upturned mouth to graze along the river bottom. It is mainly herbivorous but may occasionally consume small invertebrates, with feeding most active during daylight hours.
Behavior
This species forms schools for protection and foraging, exhibiting diurnal activity patterns with head-standing behavior to feed on the substrate. It can be territorial during spawning seasons and generally avoids fast currents by staying in calmer waters. Individuals are known to be agile swimmers but prefer hiding in vegetation when threatened.
Conservation Status
Rhytiodus microlepis is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population trend in most of its range. Major threats include habitat degradation from deforestation and pollution in the Amazon River basin.