Roeboides occidentalis
NameRoeboides occidentalis
Scientific NameRoeboides occidentalis
Common NamesWestern Roeboides, Scale-Eating Tetra
FamilyCharacidae
OriginCentral America, South America
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)7
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-80
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Cichlids, Large Armored Catfish, Other Robust Characins
Description
Roeboides occidentalis is a predatory characin from Central and South America, known for its specialized teeth and lepidophagous (scale-eating) habits. It possesses a sleek, silvery body with a somewhat compressed profile and can be semi-aggressive, requiring careful tankmate selection. This species is not suitable for typical community aquariums.
