Biology

Usually found in slow moving or standing water (Ref. 27732). Occurs in floodplains, canals, ditches and small sluggish streams. Proliferates in impoundments, and lives in areas with abundant aquatic vegetation. Feeds on crustaceans, tubificid worms, algae and zooplankton. Moves into newly inundated land during flood season and spawns there (Ref. 12693, 57235).