Hoplias malabaricus
Traíra
The Traíra ( Hoplias malabaricus ) is a medium sized predator with wide distribution in South America.
Name
The Traíra or Tigersalmler called in English Characin Tiger or Tiger Fish, is called in Brazil Traíra or Lobo, in Spanish-speaking countries Rubafo, Calabrote, Moncholo, Mocho, Guabina or Perra Loca.
Morphology
Traíras have a light brown top, a striped pattern or black red bands on the flanks and show towards the belly yellowish slightly reddish hues. His teeth are relatively sharp and may cause injury if handled improperly.
Occurrence
Traíra are among the most common species of Brazil. Their range extends from the Rio Magdalena in Colombia, the Amazon to the Rio Paraná, Rio Iguaçu and the Lagoa dos Patos in southern Brazil.
Way of life
Hoplias malabaricus shows a high degree of adaptability and can survive through its air breathing in very small oxygen-poor waters. The predatory fish are about 50 inches long and weighs up to 3 kg. They inhabit different habitats of schnellfließendem clear water in mountain regions to slow flowing turbid rivers with high substrate content in the lowlands. Its high adaptability allows him to penetrate into small irrigation ditches and ponds. The water temperature should be minimal amount to 18 ° C, tolerates temperatures up to 35 ° C at a pH of 4.8 to 6.9. During the day, spends Hoplias malabaricus predominantly in the dense aquatic vegetation and robbing at night. Juveniles feed on small crustaceans, insect larvae and other aquatic organisms. Adult animals feed mainly on fish. From 26 ° C water temperature begins Hoplias malabaricus spawn, the cock fish have a strong parental care instinct and protect the eggs from predators. Young animals form smaller groups and swarms to their natural enemies include Piranhas (eg Serrasalmus rhombeus ) and Tiger Patel catfish ( Pseudoplastysoma ssp. ).
Use
Traíras are edible fish and kept in fish farms and aquaculture. In many regions they are fished. They also serve as ornamental and aquarium fish.