Care
The Redhook Myleus has a widespread distribution across much of northern South America, inhabiting a number of watersheds including the Amazon and Orinoco River basins. Here, this gregarious species is observed in large shoals in the calmer sections of rivers where there is abundant marginal and overhanging riparian vegetation. This is a timid, but peaceful, shoaling species, juveniles of which will require an aquarium at least 4ft long. These fast-swimming fish grow very quickly and before long will require an aquarium measuring at least 6"™ x 2"™ x 2"™. They must have company of their own kind, and 6 specimens would be considered to be the minimum number to house together. Larger groups will help to make them feel much more secure. The aquarium itself should be sited in a quiet location where it does not receive a large amount of continual foot traffic going past. These are very skittish fish that are easily startled, so they must be provided with many shady hiding spots within the aquarium and some very tight fitting coverslides to prevent them from accidentally jumping out. Décor must be chosen with care as anything sharp can cause them injury whenever they decide to make a dash for cover. When cleaning the aquarium, much care must be taken to ensure that these nervous fish do not become too startled. Redhook Myleus are largely herbivorous and possess quite powerful dentition. They will devour most plant species in their aquarium, however, more robust species such as Java Fern or Anubias can sometimes be successful; otherwise you may wish to opt for plastic or silk varieties. Filtration should be efficient with moderate water movement and some calmer resting areas out of the current. A good level of oxygenation is important, and excellent water quality must be maintained at all times, as these fish are sensitive to elevated nitrate levels. Keep lighting as dim as possible, and do not house with any small (bite-sized) or aggressive species.
Feeding
A large proportion of the diet should consist of vegetable matter. Redhook Myleus will happily consume the following: flake, green flake, slow-sinking pellets, algae wafers, cucumber, spinach, lettuce, watercress, fine-leaved aquatic plants (such as Cabomba caroliniana), and frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp etc. Larger specimens will eat krill, chopped prawns etc.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium.
