Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Siluriformes
- Family
- Serrasalmidae
- Genus
- Myloplus
- Species
- rubripinnis
Habitat
This fish inhabits slow-moving rivers, tributaries, and flooded forests in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, preferring warm, freshwater environments with abundant vegetation. It thrives in areas with temperatures around 24-28°C and is often found in shaded, vegetated waters to avoid strong currents.
Diet
The Redhook myleus primarily feeds on fruits, seeds, and nuts that fall into the water, along with aquatic plants and occasional invertebrates. It uses its powerful jaws to crush hard-shelled items, and feeding typically occurs during the daytime in shallow waters.
Behavior
Redhook myleus are schooling fish that form groups for protection and foraging, making them more active in larger numbers. They are diurnal, spending daylight hours searching for food and resting in shaded areas at night, and may exhibit territorial behavior around prime feeding spots. These fish are known for their agility in navigating through dense vegetation.
Conservation Status
Listed as Not Evaluated by IUCN.