Sturisoma monopelte facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sturisoma monopelte |
|
|---|---|
| Scientific classification |
The Sturisoma monopelte is a special type of armored catfish. It is also known as the "whiptail catfish" because of its long, thin tail. This fish is only found in one part of the world: Guyana, a country in South America.
It lives specifically in the Rupununi River basin. This means it calls the rivers and streams of that area its home. The Sturisoma monopelte can grow to be about 26.5 centimeters (about 10.4 inches) long. That's roughly the length of a standard ruler!
About the Sturisoma Monopelte
The Sturisoma monopelte is a fascinating fish. It belongs to a group called armored catfish. These fish have bony plates on their bodies, almost like armor. This armor helps protect them from other animals.
Where This Fish Lives
This particular catfish is endemic to Guyana. When an animal is endemic, it means it naturally lives only in that one specific place. For the Sturisoma monopelte, that place is the Rupununi River basin. This river system is part of the larger Amazon River basin.
The Rupununi River basin is a rich environment. It has many different types of plants and animals. The Sturisoma monopelte thrives in these waters. It often lives in areas with clear, flowing water.
What it Looks Like
The Sturisoma monopelte has a unique appearance. Its body is long and slender. It has a flattened head and a long, thin tail. This tail gives it the nickname "whiptail catfish."
Its color can help it blend in with its surroundings. This camouflage helps it hide from predators. Like other armored catfish, it has special mouthparts. These help it scrape algae and tiny organisms from rocks and wood.
