The attractive patterning of these headstanders (so-called because they often rest with the head pointing downward) consists of alternating stripes of black and yellow.
Directory of Freshwater Fish Characoids Predatory species DREADED HUNTERS Few fish inspire greater fear than piranhas. While many predatory fish live solitary lives, piranhas are like packs of wolves, living and hunting together in groups and occasionally taking prey as large as horses or even people. Indeed, keeping these notorious fish is outlawed in some […]
Catfish represent one of the largest groups of aquarium fish and also one of the most diverse in terms of appearance and lifestyle. There are more than 2,000 species in approximately 30 families. Some of these fish are sedentary and suitable for a community tank, while others are active predators that grow to a large size.
In these regions cichlids are not the dominant predators and are rarely found in open water (where they would be easy prey for other fishes, birds, and reptiles) ; instead they occupy the margins of permanent bodies of water – lakes, rivers, and streams – where they can shelter among overhanging vegetation, roots, and fallen trees. Some are found beneath floating islands of plant debris. Most prefer still or slow-moving water, and do not appreciate bright lighting.
