Pristobrycon calmoni – Dusky Palometa
Pristobrycon calmoni was first described by Franz Steindachner in 1908. This fish belongs to the family Serrasalmidae, which is known for piranhas and pacus. Their common name is Dusky Palometa.
The genus name “Pristobrycon” is derived from the Greek “pristis” (saw) and “bryko” (bite), referring to the saw-like teeth of these fish. The species name “calmoni” is a tribute to Miguel Calmon du Pin e Almedia (1879-1935), the Brazilian Minister of Agriculture, Trade and Industry as a token of respect and gratitude.
Synonyms: Serrasalmo calmoni, Serrasalmus calmoni, Pygocentrus bilineatus, Serrasalmus bilineatus, Serrasalmus coccogenis, Pygopristis gibbosus.
Description
General Description:
Pristobrycon calmoni, also known as the Dusky Palometa, has a round body with a slightly arched back. The head is stout and broad, with a blunt snout. The fish has a spine in front of the anal fin and a broad adipose fin. The head is silver with a metallic orange-to-red color at the jaw and gill covers. The eyes are yellow. The body is greenish on the sides with a mixture of orange and red in the ventral area. There is a single spot behind the gill covers above the pectoral fin. The fins are pale, except for the anal fin which has yellow or orange basal rays and membranes with a black border. The caudal fin has a black band at the tip. The maximum size is about 15 centimeters.
Differences between Males and Females:
There are no specific physical differences between males and females described in the available sources. Behavioral differences are also not documented.
Behavior and Temperament:
Pristobrycon calmoni is a solitary species and is never seen in schools. It is a predatory fish that eats smaller fish and attacks the fins of other fish. The diet also includes juveniles, aquatic insects, and crustaceans such as shrimp. Sometimes they also eat fruits from the surrounding gallery forests. These fish are generally aggressive and not suitable for a community aquarium.
Life expectancy:
In captivity, these fish can live 12-18 years.
Biotope
Distribution and Habitat:
Pristobrycon calmoni is native to Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana. They live mainly in the lower and middle Amazon and Orinoco river basins, as well as in the coastal rivers of Guyana. Their natural habitats are black or acidic waters and turbid waters of the tributaries and main channels of the middle and lower Orinoco rivers. Juveniles are often found in heavily vegetated areas, while adults live in smaller channels.
Natural Enemies and Climate:
Pristobrycon calmoni is a predatory fish and has few natural enemies. They live in a tropical climate with a dry season from October to March and a rainy season from April to September.
Diet
Diet in the Wild:
In the wild, juveniles eat microcrustaceans, insects, and occasionally small seeds. Adults are primarily predators that eat smaller fish, but during the rainy season when the rainforest floods, they also eat fruits and seeds.
Diet in the Aquarium:
In the aquarium, they should be fed a diet of live foods such as small fish, shrimp, and insects. They can also be fed high-quality fish foods such as pellets and flakes.
The Aquarium
Aquarium Size and Furnishing:
The aquarium should be at least 300 liters for a single fish. A much larger aquarium is needed for multiple fish to prevent territorial conflicts. The aquarium should be furnished with plants and rocks to provide hiding places. A sand or gravel substrate is suitable.
Water parameters:
The ideal water parameters for Pristobrycon calmoni are a pH of 6.5 to 7.8, a temperature of 23-28°C, and a water hardness of 4-25 °d.
Compatibility:
This species is best kept as a solitary fish due to their aggressive nature. They do not do well with other fish, especially smaller species that may be considered prey.
Breeding Pristibrycon calmoni
There is no detailed information available on breeding Pristobrycon calmoni in an aquarium.
Particularities
Pristobrycon calmoni is a rare species that is not often seen in the trade. They are considered fin biters and should therefore be kept solitary. The species is mainly found in calm waters such as lakes and waterholes.
Conclusion
Pristobrycon calmoni is a challenging fish species to keep due to their aggressive nature and specific dietary requirements. They are not suitable for beginners and require a well-equipped aquarium with ample space. It is important to keep them solitary to avoid conflict with other fish. Despite the challenges, they can be an interesting addition to experienced aquarists who are willing to accommodate their specific needs.
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
Carl H. Eigenmann – Public Domain
