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Article Characoids

Discussion in 'Aquarium Equipment & Decor' started by MOD_Dawn, Aug 31, 2009.

  1. MOD_Dawn

    MOD_Dawn Thread Starter Active Member

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    CHARACOIDS

    It is suprisingly difficult to describe exactly what defines a characoid, in spite of the fact that many of them are popular aquarium fish. While they usually have teeth, they are not the only group of fish with this characteristic.

    Most characoids have a small, remote fin located on the back, just in front of the caudal fin. This fin, which lacks any rays, is called an adipose fin, but then again, not every member of the group displays this feature. Although the majority of characoid species are New World origin, the group is also well represented in Africa.

    Note--> Body shape is no guide as to what constitutes a member of this group of fish. While pencilfish, such as Dwarf Pencilfish (Nannosotomus marginaus), have thin, elongated bodies, other caracoids, including hatchetfish, have very deep profiles.
     
    MOD_Dawn, Aug 31, 2009
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