FishLvr.com

X-Ray Fish

By Gary Bolton

Family: Characidae

Species: Pristella maxillaris

Size: 2.5cm (1 inch)

Diet: Omnivorous

Tank levels: All

Habitat: Inland waters of Venezuela, Guyana, and Amazonian Brazil

Remarks: This is a decorative, long standing aquarium favourite. Due to demand, most specimens are now commercially bred rather than wild caught.

Comments: The body shape of the X-Ray Fish follows the traditional tetra pattern, with equal curvature on dorsal and ventral surfaces. The main distinguishing feature of this fish is the lack of colour and apparent translucence. The internal organs in their silver sac are visible. If ever there was a strange looking fish species this is one for sure. Still, a very good species of fish for a community setup.

More →