Farlowella amazonum facts for kids

Farlowella amazonum is a special kind of armored catfish. It gets its name from the Amazon region where it lives. This fish is found in the freshwaters of Argentina and Brazil. You can find it swimming in big river systems like the Tocantins, La Plata, and the famous Amazon basin.

This unique fish can grow to be about 22.5 centimeters long. This measurement is called "SL," which stands for standard length. It means the length of the fish from its snout (nose) to the base of its tail fin.

What is an Armored Catfish?

A Fish with Natural Armor

Farlowella amazonum is known as an "armored catfish" because it has special bony plates on its body. These plates act like a suit of armor. They help protect the fish from predators. Most fish have scales, but armored catfish have these tough, protective plates instead.

Living in South America

This fish is native to South America. It lives in the warm freshwater rivers and streams of Argentina and Brazil. These areas are home to many different kinds of fish and other amazing wildlife. The Amazon basin, where it lives, is one of the largest and most diverse ecosystems on Earth.

Where it Swims

• Tocantins River: This is a major river in Brazil.
• La Plata Basin: This large area includes parts of Argentina, Brazil, and other countries. It's formed by the meeting of several big rivers.
• Amazon Basin: This is the huge area drained by the Amazon River and its many tributaries. It's famous for its incredible biodiversity.

Size and Discovery

How Big Do They Get?

Farlowella amazonum can grow up to 22.5 centimeters (about 8.9 inches) long. This measurement is taken from the tip of its nose to the start of its tail fin. This makes it a medium-sized fish compared to some other catfish species.

Who Discovered It?

This species was first described by a scientist named Albert Günther in 1864. When a scientist "describes" a species, it means they officially name it and write down its unique features. This helps other scientists identify and study the fish.

See also

In Spanish: Farlowella amazonum para niños