Pterobunocephalus depressus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pterobunocephalus depressus |
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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: |
Aspredininae
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| Genus: |
Pterobunocephalus
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| Species: |
P. depressus
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| Binomial name | |
| Pterobunocephalus depressus (Haseman, 1911)
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Pterobunocephalus depressus is a unique type of banjo catfish. It lives in several countries across South America, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Venezuela. This small fish can grow up to about 8.9 centimeters (around 3.5 inches) long. It was first described by John Diederich Haseman in 1911.
Contents
What is a Banjo Catfish?
Banjo catfish are a special group of fish known for their flat, wide bodies. They often look like a banjo, which is how they got their name! These fish are part of the Aspredinidae family. They are usually found living at the bottom of rivers and streams.
Appearance and Size
Pterobunocephalus depressus has a very flat body, which helps it hide. Its skin is often bumpy or textured, helping it blend in with the riverbed. This fish is quite small, reaching just under 9 centimeters. Its colors usually match its surroundings, making it hard to spot.
Where They Live
This banjo catfish lives in freshwater environments. It prefers slow-moving rivers, streams, and even swamps. These fish are often found in areas with lots of leaf litter, mud, or sand. They use their flat bodies to bury themselves, staying hidden from predators.
Life in the Water
Pterobunocephalus depressus spends most of its time on the bottom. It is a nocturnal fish, meaning it is most active at night. During the day, it stays buried or hidden. This helps it avoid bigger fish and birds that might try to eat it.
What They Eat
Like many bottom-dwelling fish, Pterobunocephalus depressus likely eats small invertebrates. This includes tiny worms, insect larvae, and other small creatures. It uses its sensitive whiskers, called barbels, to find food in the mud and sand.
Reproduction
The reproduction of banjo catfish is quite interesting. Many species lay their eggs on objects at the bottom of the water. The parents, especially the male, often guard the eggs until they hatch. This protects the young fish from dangers. While specific details for Pterobunocephalus depressus are not widely known, it likely follows a similar pattern to other banjo catfish.
See also
In Spanish: Pterobunocephalus depressus para niños
