Payara
📖 Overview
Payara (Hydrolycus scomberoides) is a ray-finned fish of the family Cynodontidae. It inhabits freshwater waters. This species can reach a maximum total length of 117 cm. With a trophic level of 4.5, it is an apex predator. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Valued as a sport fish.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Payara is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical; 24°C - 28°C South America: Amazon River basin.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🎣 Angling Guide
- medium-heavy 7ft spinning rod
- 30-50 lb braid
- fluorocarbon leader
- grass flats
- oyster bars
- marsh drains
- deeper channel edges
Use barbless hooks, minimise air exposure, and revive fish head-first in current before release.
⚠️ Slot limits protect breeding-size fish. Verify daily bag limits.
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 17 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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