Hypostomus maracaiboensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hypostomus maracaiboensis |
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The Hypostomus maracaiboensis is a type of catfish that belongs to the Loricariidae family. These fish are often called "armored catfish" because they have bony plates on their bodies. This species is found in South America, specifically in the Lake Maracaibo area of Venezuela.
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About the Maracaibo Armored Catfish
This interesting fish can grow to about 28.5 centimeters (or 11.2 inches) long. That's roughly the length of a standard ruler!
What Does It Eat?
The Hypostomus maracaiboensis has a special diet. It mainly eats algae, which are tiny plant-like organisms that grow in water. It also feeds on detritus, which is decaying plant and animal matter. Think of it like a clean-up crew for the lake!
Breathing Air
Most fish breathe using gills underwater. However, the Hypostomus maracaiboensis is a "facultative air-breather." This means it can breathe air from above the water if it needs to, especially if the water doesn't have enough oxygen. It's like having a backup breathing system!
Its Scientific Name
This fish was first described by a scientist named Leonard Peter Schultz in 1944. He originally placed it in a different group called Hemiancistrus. For many years, people referred to it by that name.
However, in 2015, a team of scientists did a new study. Jonathan W. Armbruster, David C. Werneke, and Milton Tan looked closely at the fish's features. They decided that it actually belonged in the Hypostomus group instead. So, its official scientific name changed to Hypostomus maracaiboensis.
See Also
- In Spanish: Hemiancistrus maracaiboensis para niños
