Falls Lukunani
📖 Overview
Falls Lukunani (Cichla cataractae), first described by Fernández, Willis, Hemraj, Taphorn & Winemiller, 2020 is a medium-sized fish in the family Cichlidae (order Cichliformes). Adults typically reach 38.40 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. Diet is predominantly piscivorous, targeting other fish and larger prey. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is kept in the aquarium hobby. Care requirements and behaviour align broadly with other Cichlidae kept in the hobby.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Juveniles (less than 15 cm SL) exhibit a body pattern dominated by three prominent dark blotches on the sides. The largest blotch, located below the soft dorsal fin, has a long teardrop shape that tapers posteriorly and is clearly separated from an elliptical caudal blotch. In larger juveniles, these blotches develop pale borders, giving them an ocellated appearance. Adults display a different pattern, with two distinct, ocellated dark blotches on the sides. The anterior blotch is rounded, situated below the base of the spinous dorsal fin, and does not extend above the anterior lateral line. The posterior blotch, located below the soft dorsal fin, is highly irregular in shape and often displaced dorsally. A smaller, ocellated or non-ocellated dark blotch may occasionally appear below the posterior base of the spinous dorsal fin, aligning with the anterior blotch. Vertical bars on the sides are either absent or faint. Additionally, a postorbital stripe is always present but appears as a broken series of irregular dark spots, each typically ocellated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Falls Lukunani is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical South America: Guyana.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Falls Lukunani.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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