Morphological study of the digestive tract of the cardinal tetra, Paracheirodon axelrodi (Characiformes: Characidae)

Abstract The cardinal tetra Paracheirodon axelrodi is a species of the family Characidae great interest as an ornamental fish. Many aspects biology this are still unknown. present work presents complete description different components digestive tract P. axelrodi, analyzing its global anatomical arrangement, adjacent glands (liver and pancreas) previously ignored pyloric caeca, using histological histochemical techniques with light microscopy scanning electron microscopy. Three levels analysis were performed: macroscopic anatomy, histology gastrointestinal mucosal surfaces. intestinal coefficient (Ci) calculated here (0.94) within expected range for carnivorous species. anatomy alimentary resulting Ci consistent diet in line dietary studies wild tract, including pancreas), presented relatively conserved general pattern that described other Characidae, especially at level.