Epiplatys Atratus

📖 Overview

Epiplatys atratus is found in small, rather fast flowing rivers containing acid water with temperatures ranging from 24.3-30.3°C .

🔬 Taxonomy

🐟 Physical Description

Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9 - 10; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 13 - 14. Diagnosis: Epiplatys atratus belongs to a supragroup of species, the E. multifasciatus, ansorgii and sangmelinensis species groups, characterized by the possession of a large mouth, reaching the ventral border of the eye . It is placed in the E. multifasciatus species group and distinguished from members of the E. ansorgii species group, by the absence of a dark bar under the eye, and from members of the E. sangmelinensis group, by the presence of two dark bars on the lower jaw, which are absent in the E. sangmelinensis group . Epiplatys atratus is distinguished from all other members of the E. multifasciatus species group by the possession of a dorsal fin inserted above anal fin ray 8-10 versus 10-13; in large males the lobes surrounding the supra-orbital laterosensory system almost cover the groove versus a completely open groove in large males of other species; from E. multifasciatus, E. mesogramma and E. phoeniceps it is additionaly distinguished by the absence of broad dark bars on the flanks and fins of males without markings versus all fins spotted, the anal fin provided with two or three dark blotches as extensions of the dark bars on the flanks; Epiplatys atratus shows only narrow dark bars on side, whereas the former species have broader dark bars and only sometimes narrow bars in between . It is further distinguished from E. chevalieri by the presence of narrow vertical bars in smaller males and in females versus complete absence of vertical bars .

🌀 Behaviour

Behavioural data for Epiplatys Atratus is currently being reviewed.

🦐 Diet

🥚 Reproduction

🌍 Habitat & Distribution

Freshwater; pelagic; pH range: 4.5 - 6.6. Tropical; 24°C - 30°C

🌿 Ecology

📐 Morphometrics

🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance

📊 Population Risk & Fisheries

🐠 Related Species

🔍 Similar Species

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