Crenicichla alta facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crenicichla alta |
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The Crenicichla alta is a fascinating type of fish known as a cichlid. These fish are native to the fresh waters of South America. They are often found swimming in the large Amazon River basin.
You can spot Crenicichla alta in specific rivers. For example, they live in the Branco River basin in Brazil. They also make their home in the Essequibo River basin in Guyana. This fish can grow to be about 16 centimeters (about 6.3 inches) long. That's roughly the length of a regular pencil!
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What is a Cichlid?
A cichlid is a type of fish that belongs to a very large family. This family has over 1,700 different species! Cichlids are known for their interesting behaviors. Many cichlids are great parents. They often protect their eggs and young fish very carefully. Some even carry their babies in their mouths to keep them safe.
Where Does it Live?
The Crenicichla alta lives in warm, freshwater environments. Its main home is the Amazon River basin. This is one of the largest river systems in the world. It covers a huge part of South America.
The Amazon River Basin
The Amazon River basin is like a giant network of rivers and streams. It flows through many countries. This area is full of amazing wildlife. The Crenicichla alta thrives in these rich waters. It finds plenty of food and places to hide.
Branco River, Brazil
The Branco River is an important river in Brazil. It flows into the Rio Negro, which is a major tributary of the Amazon. The waters here provide a perfect habitat for Crenicichla alta.
Essequibo River, Guyana
The Essequibo River is the largest river in Guyana. It flows all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. This river system also supports populations of Crenicichla alta. The fish adapts well to the conditions found in these different river environments.
Who Discovered This Fish?
The Crenicichla alta was first described by a scientist named Carl H. Eigenmann. He was an American ichthyologist. An ichthyologist is a scientist who studies fish.
When Was it Discovered?
Carl H. Eigenmann officially described this species in 1912. This means he was the first to give it its scientific name. He also documented its features and where it lives. His work helped us learn more about the amazing fish of South America.
