Author: Weitzman & Ortega, 1995
Remark: Weitzman & Ortega (1995). See Weitzman & Menezes (1998) for relationships.
Comments: Inhabits small black water streams in areas forested by the palm <i>Maurita flexuosa</i>.  Usually occurs in the gallery forest areas in pools of small streams of 2-4m wide.  The water depth where this species occurs is usually 20-60cm and the current is slow.  The bottom is usually sandy but may be pebbly and with much forest debris.  Commonly found near the shoreline where they can seek protection from predators among vegetation.  Commonly swims near the surface of the water in schools of about 20 to 80 individuals.