Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Anguilliformes
- Family
- Anostomidae
- Genus
- Leporinus
- Species
- brunneus
Habitat
Red piau primarily inhabit fast-flowing rivers and streams in the Amazon basin, such as the Rio Negro and Orinoco River systems in Brazil and surrounding areas. They prefer clear or slightly turbid waters with rocky or sandy substrates and abundant vegetation for cover. This species avoids stagnant waters, thriving in oxygenated environments typical of tropical South American freshwater systems.
Diet
Red piau are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic insects, small crustaceans, and plant matter like algae and fruits that fall into the water. They forage actively during the day, often sifting through substrate or picking food from surfaces. Feeding peaks in the morning and late afternoon when prey is most abundant.
Behavior
Red piau are diurnal and often form schools for protection while foraging in rivers. They exhibit territorial behavior during spawning, with dominant individuals defending nesting sites. These fish are agile swimmers, using currents to their advantage, and they tend to hide among rocks or vegetation when threatened.
Conservation Status
Listed as Not Evaluated by IUCN.