Bolt Catfish facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bolt Catfish |
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The Bolt Catfish or Yellow-band Catfish (scientific name: Aguarunichthys torosus) is a special type of catfish. It belongs to a fish family called Pimelodidae. This fish lives near the bottom of rivers and also swims in the open water. It is found only in the Cenepa River basin, which is part of the huge Amazon River system in Peru, South America.
This unique catfish has only been discovered in the Río Marañón, a large river in the upper Amazon basin of Peru. The Bolt Catfish can grow to be quite long, reaching about 346 millimeters, which is roughly 13.6 inches.
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What is the Bolt Catfish?
The Bolt Catfish is known for its interesting appearance, though it doesn't have a lot of detailed information available yet. It gets its common names, "Bolt Catfish" and "Yellow-band Catfish," likely from its markings or swift movements. As a catfish, it has special whiskers called barbels around its mouth, which it uses to feel and taste its surroundings, helping it find food in the water.
Where Does It Live?
The Bolt Catfish calls the freshwater rivers of Peru its home. Specifically, it lives in the Cenepa River basin, which flows into the mighty Amazon River. This area is part of the Amazon rainforest, a place full of amazing plants and animals. The rivers here are often warm and have plenty of places for fish to hide and find food.
Its River Home: The Amazon Basin
The Amazon River basin is one of the largest and most diverse ecosystems on Earth. It includes many rivers, streams, and flooded forests. Fish like the Bolt Catfish are perfectly adapted to live in these waters. They play an important role in the river's food web, helping to keep the ecosystem healthy and balanced.
How Big Does It Get?
The Bolt Catfish can grow to a length of about 346 millimeters. To give you an idea, that's a bit longer than a standard ruler! This size makes it a medium-sized fish among the many different types of catfish found in the Amazon.
Discovery and Naming
This species was first described by a scientist named Donald J. Stewart in 1986. When a new animal is found, scientists give it a unique scientific name, like Aguarunichthys torosus, so everyone around the world knows exactly which creature they are talking about. The name often gives clues about where the animal was found or what it looks like.
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