Centrochir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Centrochir crocodili |
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| Scientific classification | |
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Centrochir
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crocodili
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The Centrochir crocodili is a special type of catfish. It's the only known species in its group, called a genus, which is named Centrochir. This fish belongs to the family of fish known as Doradidae, which are often called thorny catfishes because some have spiky plates on their bodies.
This unique fish lives only in one specific place, which means it is endemic. It is found in Colombia, a country in South America. You can find it swimming in the Magdalena River basin. A "basin" is the area of land drained by a river and all its smaller streams. The Centrochir crocodili can grow up to about 21.0 centimeters (around 8.3 inches) long. This measurement is called "SL" or standard length, which means it's measured from the tip of the snout to the base of the tail fin.
About the Crocodile Catfish
The Centrochir crocodili is a fascinating example of how diverse fish can be. As a catfish, it likely has whiskers, called barbels, around its mouth, which it uses to feel and taste in the water. Catfish are known for living in various freshwater environments, often at the bottom of rivers and lakes.
Where it Lives
This particular catfish makes its home in the Magdalena River system in Colombia. This river is one of the most important rivers in Colombia. It flows from the Andes mountains all the way to the Caribbean Sea. The river basin provides a rich habitat for many different kinds of plants and animals, including this special fish. Living in a specific river system means the fish has adapted perfectly to its environment.
Discovery and Naming
The Centrochir crocodili was first described by Alexander von Humboldt in 1821, who named it Doras crocodili at that time. Later, in 1829, Louis Agassiz placed it in its own genus, Centrochir. Scientists sometimes change the names or groups of animals as they learn more about them. This helps them understand how different species are related to each other. The name "crocodili" might suggest something about its appearance, perhaps its tough skin or shape, reminding early observers of a crocodile.
See also
- In Spanish: Centrochir crocodili para niños
Images for kids
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