Aimara (Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus)

Scientific name: Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus Spix & Agassiz, 1829

The Aimara (Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Erythrinidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 23–27°C (73–81°F). Native range: Central and South America, S?o Francisco, Amazon, Paran?, Orinoco and Magdalena River basins, and coastal rivers in Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.

Aimara care at a glance

Temperature: 23–27°C (73–81°F)

Biology

Inhabits swamps and creeks with little current, as well as in flooded savannas. 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. 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.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus
Family: Erythrinidae (Trahiras)
Order: Characiformes (Characins)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 25.0
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: 5.6 - 7.8; dH range: ? - 30 pelagic
Climate: Subtropical
Distribution: Central and South America: S?o Francisco, Amazon, Paran?, Orinoco and Magdalena River basins, and coastal rivers in Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.
Conservation status (IUCN): Not Evaluated
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Fisheries: commercial; aquarium: public aquariums