Myleus

Myleus
Myleus sp.
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Characiformes
Family: Serrasalmidae
Genus: Myleus
J. P. Müller & Troschel, 1844
Type species
Myleus setiger
J. P. Müller & Troschel, 1844

Myleus is a genus of serrasalmids from South America, where found in the Amazon, Orinoco and São Francisco basins, as well as the river basin of the Guiana Shield.[1] They are found in rivers with moderately or fast-flowing water, including rapids.[2] They are primarily herbivores, but also take some animal matter.[2] Depending on the exact species, they reach up to 12–42 cm (0.4–1.4 ft) in standard length, and the adult males have a double-lobed anal fin and filamentous extensions on the dorsal fin.[2] Their strong teeth means that larger individuals can inflict severe bites on humans.

  1. ^ Ota, R.P., Röpke, C.P., Zuanon, J. & Jégu, M. (2013): Serrasalmidae. In: Queiroz, L.J., Torrente-Vilara, G., Ohara, W.M., Pires, T.H.S., Zuanon, J. & Doria, C.R.C. (Eds.), Peixes do rio Madeira. Volume II, Santo Antonio Energia, São Paulo, 12–47.
  2. ^ a b c van der Sleen, P.; J.S. Albert, eds. (2017). Field Guide to the Fishes of the Amazon, Orinoco, and Guianas. Princeton University Press. p. 185. ISBN 978-0691170749.