Pseudacanthicus pirarara
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| Pseudacanthicus pirarara | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Siluriformes |
| Family: | Loricariidae |
| Genus: | Pseudacanthicus |
| Species: | P. pirarara |
| Binomial name | |
| Pseudacanthicus pirarara Chamon & de Sousa, 2016 | |
Pseudacanthicus pirarara[1] is a species of catfish in the family Loricariidae native to South America. It was described in 2016 by Carine C. Chamon of the Federal University of Tocantins and Leandro M. de Sousa of the Federal University of Pará, primarily on the basis of the species' unique coloration and patterning.[2] Its specific epithet, pirarara, derives from a Tupi word meaning "macaw-fish", which is frequently used in Brazil to refer to the redtail catfish. It is known that P. pirarara is referred to as the assacu-pirarara by Brazilian fishermen, alluding both to its coloration and its spines, as assacu refers to the spine-covered tree Hura crepitans (also known as the sandbox tree).[3]
P. pirarara is a medium-sized loricariid catfish that reaches at least 23.4 cm (9.2 inches) in standard length,[1] although it has been reported to grow larger.[4] It is typically a grey or brown color with numerous dark blotches that form continuous longitudinal bands, as well as characteristically bright red or orange fins. It is also distinct in possessing dark blotches on the underside of its head and body.
These characteristics differentiate it from other members of the genus Pseudacanthicus which it could be confused with, such as P. pitanga and P. leopardus, which may also possess bright orange fins but lack P. pirarara's characteristic patterning. Similarly to other Pseudacanthicus species, P. pirarara sports multiple longitudinal rows of spines.[2]
Distribution and habitat
P. pirarara is a freshwater fish endemic to the Xingu River basin in Brazil. It typically occurs in rocky environments with a swift current, where it can often be seen hiding beneath rocks.[2]
Ecology
Unlike many loricariids, P. pirarara is a carnivorous species (feeding mainly on small invertebrates) known to be solitary and territorial. It is also believed to be nocturnal, taking shelter during the day.[3]