Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Perciformes
- Family
- Gerreidae
- Genus
- Caquetaia
- Species
- kraussii
Habitat
Yellow mojarra primarily inhabit freshwater rivers, lakes, and estuaries in South America, such as the Magdalena, Orinoco, and Atrato rivers. They prefer slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy substrates and abundant vegetation for cover. These areas are typically warm, tropical environments with temperatures around 24-28°C.
Diet
Yellow mojarra feed on small invertebrates like insects, crustaceans, and worms, as well as plant matter and detritus. They are opportunistic bottom-feeders, foraging primarily during the day in shallow waters. Feeding behavior includes sifting through substrate to extract food items.
Behavior
Yellow mojarra are schooling fish that form groups for protection and feeding, often seen swimming near the bottom in shallow waters. They are diurnal, active during the day, and exhibit territorial behavior around feeding areas. These fish are generally wary and quick to scatter when threatened.
Conservation Status
Listed as Not Evaluated by IUCN.