Farlowella curtirostra facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Farlowella curtirostra |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Farlowella
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| Species: |
curtirostra
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The Farlowella curtirostra is a type of armored catfish. It is a unique fish found only in the rivers and lakes around Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela. This interesting fish can grow to be about 15 centimeters (6 inches) long, not counting its tail.
About the Farlowella curtirostra
The Farlowella curtirostra is part of a group of fish often called "twig catfish" or "whiptail catfish." This is because they have very long, slender bodies that look a lot like twigs or sticks. This helps them blend in with the plants and branches in the water.
What it Looks Like
This catfish has a long, thin body that is usually brown or tan. This color helps it hide among the wood and leaves at the bottom of rivers. It has a special mouth that helps it scrape algae and tiny bits of food from rocks and plants. Its body is covered in bony plates, which act like armor to protect it from predators.
Where it Lives
The Farlowella curtirostra lives in the freshwaters of the Lake Maracaibo area in Venezuela. This region has many rivers and streams that flow into the large Lake Maracaibo. These fish prefer clear, slow-moving water with lots of plants and submerged wood where they can hide and find food.
