Otothyropsis biamnicus facts for kids

Otothyropsis biamnicus is a small catfish that belongs to the family Loricariidae. This fish lives in South America, specifically in parts of Brazil. It is known for its interesting relationship with tiny insect larvae.

About the Otothyropsis biamnicus

This special catfish is quite small, growing to about 4 centimeters (or 1.6 inches) long. This measurement is called "standard length" (SL), which means it's measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail fin.

Where it Lives

The Otothyropsis biamnicus can be found in the fresh waters of Brazil. It lives in small rivers and streams that flow into two larger rivers: the Iguazu River and the Tibagi River. Both of these rivers are part of the big Paraná River basin.

What's in a Name?

The scientific name of this fish, biamnicus, has a cool meaning! It roughly translates to "inhabitant of two rivers." This name was chosen because the fish lives in areas connected to two different river systems, the Iguazu and the Tibagi.

Its Special Friends

The Otothyropsis biamnicus has a unique relationship with tiny insect larvae called Chironomidae midge larvae. This relationship is called commensalism. In commensalism, one living thing benefits, and the other is not really helped or harmed.

These midge larvae often attach themselves to the fish, usually near its gill openings. Sometimes, they might attach to a bone near the fish's shoulder, called the cleithrum. The larvae get a safe place to live and perhaps some food scraps, while the fish doesn't seem to be affected.