Small-scaled Roeboides
NameSmall-scaled Roeboides
Scientific NameRoeboides microlepis
Common NamesSmall-scaled Roeboides, Piranha-like Characin
FamilyCharacidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Cichlids, Large Armored Catfish, Other Large, Robust Characins
Description
Roeboides microlepis is a predatory characin from South America, characterized by its silvery body, often with a distinct dark spot behind the operculum, and a deep, compressed body shape. It is known for its specialized diet of scales and fins from other fish (lepidophagy), making it a challenging species for typical community aquariums.
