Hoplomyzon atrizona facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hoplomyzon atrizona |
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| Conservation status | |
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Not evaluated (IUCN 3.1)
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| Scientific classification | |
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Aspredinidae
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| Subfamily: |
Hoplomyzontinae
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| Genus: |
Hoplomyzon
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| Species: |
H. atrizona
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| Hoplomyzon atrizona G. S. Myers, 1942
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Hoplomyzon atrizona is a special type of banjo catfish. It is found only in one place: the Lake Maracaibo basin in Venezuela. This means it is endemic to that area, like a unique treasure found nowhere else in the world! This little fish is quite small, growing to about 2.7 centimeters long. That's less than an inch and a half, so it could fit on your fingertip!
Contents
What is a Banjo Catfish?
Banjo catfish are a group of fish known for their unique, flattened bodies. They often look a bit like a banjo, which is how they got their name! These fish are usually found living on the bottom of rivers and lakes. They often blend in with the sand or mud.
Appearance and Size
Hoplomyzon atrizona is one of the smaller banjo catfish. Its scientific name, "atrizona," might even hint at its appearance. "Atri" means "dark" and "zona" means "band" or "stripe." This suggests it might have a dark stripe on its body. Like other banjo catfish, it likely has a flat body that helps it hide on the bottom.
Where Hoplomyzon atrizona Lives
This unique fish lives in the Lake Maracaibo basin. Lake Maracaibo is a very large, brackish lake in Venezuela. Brackish means the water is a mix of fresh and salt water. It connects to the Caribbean Sea. This lake is home to many different kinds of plants and animals, including our little banjo catfish.
Life in the Lake Maracaibo Basin
The Lake Maracaibo basin is a warm, tropical environment. The fish likely lives in the muddy or sandy parts of the lake or its connecting rivers. Here, it can hide from predators and search for food. Banjo catfish are usually nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They use their sensitive whiskers, called barbels, to feel for food in the dark.
Diet and Habits
Like many other catfish, Hoplomyzon atrizona probably eats small insects, worms, and tiny bits of plant matter found on the bottom of the lake. They are often called "bottom feeders" because they spend their time looking for food in the sediment.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Hoplomyzon atrizona is currently listed as "Not Evaluated" (NE) by the IUCN. This means that scientists have not yet gathered enough information to know if this species is endangered or not. It's important to study unique animals like this to make sure they are protected.
See also
In Spanish: Hoplomyzon atrizona para niños
