n the Tocantins River Basin there are two species of the genus Cichla that live in
sympatry, Cichla kelberi and C. piquiti. Cichla piquiti is more abundant than its
congener C. kelberi. The aim of the study was to compare the ecology and biology of C.
kelberi and C. piquiti in the Lajeado HPP reservoir. Between 2010 and 2020, monthly
samplings were carried out, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, in different points and habitats.
For each captured individual, biometric and morphometric data were recorded. In
addition, there was identification of sex, stage of sexual maturation, degree of gastric
repletion and estimated fertility. Cichla piquiti had more significant results for
ecological factors related to population structure, as well as greater body size and
schooling. Diet did not differ between species, showing that they consume the same
resources. Cichla piquiti had a longer reproductive period and better body condition.
Considering the analyzed ecomorphological patterns, the attributes related to
locomotion were highlighted, indicating that C. piquiti has greater swimming and
sprinting power. This work showed that, due to its high abundance, when compared to
the abundance of the congener C. piquiti, which is well established in the reservoir.
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