Notes on Stygichthys typhlops (Characiformes: Characidae): characterization of their tooth and discussion about their diet

Abstract

Stygichthys typhlops Brittan & Böhlke, 1965 is an eyeless, depigmented troglobiont that is endemic in the north of the state of Minas Gerais, in southeastern Brazil. This study collected data about their diet and feeding behavior as observed in the laboratory, and presents information on its teething, based on microphotographs. Their teething indicates an omnivorous diet. However, both in their natural habitat and in the laboratory, vegetable material was found in their stomach and intestines. The use of vegetable foods is unlikely in subterranean environments. However, the species may have kept this characteristic by a selection pressure to continue to consume vegetables as well as other resources available because subterranean environments are usually poor in feeding resources.