Although they are not many in species, cichlid fishes are among the most economically important of fishes.
They form a significant proportion of commercial catches that make their way to markets in large towns such as
Iquitos and Manaus. The eyespot on the tail is a common feature among cichlids. The spot is believed to
provide a diversion to misdirect the attack of a potential predator toward the tail. The species above is
called Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) and is prized for its tastiness. Note the red-bellied piranhas to the
bottom right and left of the picture.
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