Bryconops alburnoides

The Brycon Dace, <em>Bryconops alburnoides</em>, is a slender freshwater fish belonging to the family Iguanodectidae, a group of characiform fishes endemic to South American river systems. The species reaches a maximum recorded length of approximately 15 centimetres and exhibits the streamlined body form characteristic of active, mid-water schooling fishes. Iguanodectidae are distinguished from related characin families by subtle osteological features and dentition patterns, and <em>Bryconops alburnoides</em> shares the elongated, silvery appearance common across the genus. Details of habitat and range for this species remain limited in the ichthyological literature. Like most members of its family, it is presumed to occupy flowing freshwater habitats within tropical South America, feeding on small invertebrates and plant matter. The species has not been formally assessed for conservation purposes and carries a status of Not Evaluated by the IUCN Red List. Continued ichthyological survey work in Amazonian and Orinoco drainages will be important for clarifying the distribution and ecological requirements of this and related Bryconops species.