The genus Curimata currently comprises 13 species; only one of these occasionally finds its way into our aquariums, namely Curimata vittata. The other species simply offer no incentive to keep them. They are shiny silver-colored animals that can reach a length of 15-20 cm and feed mainly on plant material.
Curimata vittata also reaches this length, but unlike its genus counterparts, it is quite attractively colored. An irregular tiger pattern runs across its back, its generally silver-colored flanks shine greenish or golden depending on the incidence of light, and a golden-yellow band runs along the middle of its body.
The strange mouth structure shows that they are Aufwuchs feeders. From our hobby, we are familiar with kissing gouramis (Helostoma) and flagtail tetras (Semaprochilodus), which also feed in this way. Only fine particles should be fed to these fish, as they have a narrow throat. Suitable foods include plant-based flake food finely rubbed between the fingers, frozen cyclops, Artemia nauplii, or finely ground oatmeal (caution: this pollutes the water heavily). C. vittata is widespread in the Amazon, upper Orinoco, and Essequibo River; our specimens come from Colombia. They are peaceful, somewhat shy fish that should definitely be kept in groups. Single fish are extremely shy.
For our customers: the animals have code 251203 on our stock list. Please note that we only supply wholesale customers.
Text & Photos: Frank Schäfer
