Inhabits all types of rivers and streams, from swift water to swamps and stagnant pools (Ref. 36880). Tolerates brackish water at sea level to small mountain brooks at 1000 m elevation (Ref. 36880). Forms schools over any type of substrate (Ref. 36880). Feeds on algae, seeds, leaves, aquatic and terrestrial insects and fish fry of any species (Ref. 36880). Spawns during most of the year at some sites or seasonally in other places (Ref. 36880).