Cauque mauleanum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cauque mauleanum |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Order: |
Atheriniformes
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| Family: |
Atherinidae
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| Genus: |
Cauque
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| Species: |
C. mauleanum
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| Binomial name | |
| Cauque mauleanum (Steindachner, 1896)
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Cauque mauleanum is a type of fish that lives in fresh water. It belongs to the family Atherinidae, which are often called silversides. This fish is special because it is endemic to Chile. This means you can only find it living naturally in Chile and nowhere else in the world.
Contents
About the Maule Silverside
The Cauque mauleanum is a small to medium-sized fish. It has a long, slender body, which is typical for silversides. Its scales are usually silvery, helping it blend in with its watery home.
What it Looks Like
This fish typically grows to about 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) long. It has a pointed snout and large eyes. Its fins are clear or slightly colored. The back of the fish is often darker, while its belly is lighter. This coloring helps it hide from predators both above and below.
Where it Lives
The Maule silverside is found in the freshwaters of central Chile. It prefers rivers and streams with clear, flowing water. You might find it in areas with lots of plants or rocks where it can hide. It is named after the Maule Region in Chile, where it was first discovered.
What it Eats
Like many small fish, the Cauque mauleanum is an omnivore. This means it eats both plants and animals. Its diet mainly consists of small insects and tiny crustaceans that live in the water. It also eats small bits of plant material or algae. They often feed in groups, swimming together to find food.
Its Conservation Status
The Cauque mauleanum is listed as "Lower Risk/near threatened" by the IUCN. This means that while it is not in immediate danger, its population might become threatened in the future. Things like pollution, changes to its river habitats, or too much fishing could affect it. Protecting its natural home is important to keep this unique Chilean fish safe.
See also
In Spanish: Odontesthes mauleanum para niños
