Distribution of Cynopoecilus melanotaenia:

Cynopoecilus melanotaenia is distributed in Southeastern Brazil and northern Uruguay, mostly in shallow, stagnant waters, often together with Cynolebias Adloffi and Wolterstorffi.

First Introduction of Cynopoecilus melanotaenia:

In 1912 by A. Mayer from the surroundings of Paranagua, Southeast Brazil.

Sexual Differences:

Males are more colorful, larger, and have elongated dorsal and anal fins. Their body is reddish-brown, with a dark brown band extending from the mouth over the eye to the tail and another one along the belly. Both bands are bordered by light greenish-golden scales. The throat is white. The unpaired fins are reddish-brown with dark margins on the outside. Females are lighter brown with a less developed banding. Their fins are more rounded.

Social Behavior of Cynopoecilus melanotaenia:

These fish are relatively aggressive towards each other, so there should be plenty of hiding places and escape routes provided. They are usually peaceful towards other fish, such as tetras and catfish.

Tank Setup:

Similar to Rachovia Hummelincki, the tank should have a dark substrate with a thin layer of peat or peat fibers. Hideouts can be created with peat fibers, roots, and plants like Java moss and Java fern. Water should be soft to moderately hard and slightly acidic to neutral, and not too warm.

Breeding:

They are primarily bottom spawners. These fish rarely bury themselves in the substrate; they often spawn on the surface, sometimes even in open water or on plants. It’s best to treat the substrate as usual for bottom-spawning fish. Hatching can occur after 2-3 months, depending on the storage temperature. The larger fry immediately feed on Artemia nauplii.

Feeding:

Carnivorous, they require robust live food.

Overview:

Cynopoecilus melanotaenia: Temperature: 18-24 degrees Celsius, Length: 5.5 cm, Tank Length: 60 cm, Difficulty: 3-4 (0-5)