Pristella maxillaris facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pristella maxillaris |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Conservation status | |
Scientific classification  |
|
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Characiformes |
| Family: | Characidae |
| Genus: | Pristella |
| Species: |
P. maxillaris
|
| Binomial name | |
| Pristella maxillaris (Ulrey, 1894)
|
|
| Script error: The function "autoWithCaption" does not exist. | |
| Synonyms | |
|
|
Script error: No such module "Check for conflicting parameters".
The Pristella maxillaris, often called the X-ray tetra or X-ray fish, is a fascinating freshwater fish. It gets its name because its body is almost see-through, like an X-ray! This small fish is a type of ray-finned fish and belongs to the Acestrorhamphidae family, which are known as American characins. You can find these translucent fish in the rivers of South America. They are also very popular as aquarium pets.
Contents
Discovering the X-ray Tetra
Scientists give every living thing a unique name. The X-ray tetra was first officially described in 1894. An American biologist named Albert B. Ulrey gave it the scientific name Aphyocarax maxillaris. He found this fish in Brazil, likely in the eastern Pará region. Later, in 1908, another scientist, Carl H. Eigenmann, created a new group, or monospecific genus, called Pristella just for this fish. Today, the X-ray tetra is known as Pristella maxillaris. It is part of the larger group of fish called Characiformes.
What's in a Name?
The name Pristella maxillaris has a special meaning. The first part, Pristella, comes from a word that means "one who saws." This might refer to the tiny, cone-shaped teeth found along the fish's jaw. The second part of the name, maxillaris, also points to these teeth on its maxilla, which is a bone in the jaw. So, its name really highlights its unique dental features!
What Does the X-ray Tetra Look Like?
The X-ray tetra has a body shape that is often described as fusiform. This means it's like a torpedo, wider in the middle and tapering at both ends. It can grow up to about 4.5 centimeters (about 1.8 inches) long. Its most amazing feature is its translucent body. You can actually see its spine and some internal organs from the outside!
Its scales are a pretty yellowish-silver, sometimes looking almost golden. The caudal fin (tail fin) is red. Its anal fin and dorsal fins have cool black, yellow, and white spots. There's also a small, round dark spot on its side, near its shoulder, which is about the size of its eye. The adipose fin, a small fleshy fin without rays, is clear.
Where Do X-ray Tetras Live?
X-ray tetras are native to South America. They live in the famous Amazon River and Orinoco River systems, which flow through countries like Brazil and Venezuela. You can also find them in coastal rivers in the Guianas region and other parts of Brazil. These fish prefer calm or slow-moving waters. They especially like areas with lots of aquatic vegetation, where they can find shelter and food.
X-ray Tetras as Pets
The X-ray tetra is a very popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts. People love them because they are considered hardy fish, meaning they are quite strong and can adapt well to different conditions. They are also easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners in the hobby. Most of the X-ray tetras you see in pet stores today were not caught in the wild. Instead, they were bred in captivity, often in places like Eastern Europe.
See also
In Spanish: Pristella maxillaris para niños
