Hypancistrus debilittera facts for kids

Hypancistrus debilittera is a type of armored catfish. It is a special fish because it is endemic to Venezuela, which means it is only found there. This unique fish lives in the Orinoco River. Scientists named it in 2007.

About the Orinoco Armored Catfish

The Hypancistrus debilittera is known as an armored catfish because it has tough plates on its body, like armor. This helps protect it from predators in the river. It is a freshwater fish, meaning it lives in rivers and not in the ocean.

Where it Lives

This particular catfish lives only in the Orinoco River in Venezuela. The Orinoco River is one of the longest rivers in South America. It flows through Venezuela and Colombia before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. The specific parts of the river where Hypancistrus debilittera lives provide the perfect home for it.

What Makes it Special

Being "endemic" means that this fish species is found nowhere else in the world except for its specific home in the Orinoco River. This makes it very important to protect its habitat. If something bad happens to the river, this fish could be in danger because it cannot live anywhere else.