Author: (Bonaparte, 1837)
Comments: Inhabits streams with moderate current, shallow, sand or gravel bottom, and limited aquatic vegetation (Ref. 59043).  Prefers running waters and is not well adapted in still waters (Ref. 96829).  Occurs in groups. Feeds on small molluscs and crustaceans, insects and algae.  Spawns in clear, shallow water, on gravel and aquatic vegetation on sunny days (Ref. 59043).  Attains a maximum size of about 18 cm SL (Ref. 59043), but reported not to exceed 16 cm SL (Ref. 96829). Threatened due to the introduction of other species and habitat destruction.  Can colonize lakes in the absence of specialized lacustrine species (Ref. 26100).