‘Armored' river creature found in pet aquariums worldwide turns out to be new species
In a river of northeastern Brazil, an 'armored' creature with 'large' eyes paused to rest against a rock. The maze-like pattern that helped camouflage it in the wild also made it a popular aquarium pet worldwide.
Yet, when scientists took a closer look at the distinctive animal, it turned out to be a new species.
Researchers visited the Xingu River several times between 1994 and 2017 to survey wildlife, according to a study published Feb. 10 in the peer-reviewed journal Neotropical Ichthyology.
During their visits, the team worked with local fishermen to collect dozens of catfish 'well known from the ornamental fish trade,' the study said. These catfish had never been scientifically classified, despite being popular aquarium pets for decades.
Looking at the fish in a laboratory, researchers quickly realized they'd discovered a new species: Hypancistrus seideli, or Seidel's armored catfish.
Seidel's armored catfish are considered 'medium-sized,' reaching about 6 inches in length, the study said. They have 'short and deep' bodies covered in armor-like 'plates.' Their heads have 'large' eyes, bumpy lips and teeth with 'bright red' crowns.
The most distinctive feature of the new species is the wavy, maze-like pattern covering its body. Photos show the catfish's 'astonishing array of color patterns.' The fish vary in hue — ranging from pinkish to orangish to cream — and in the density of their typically brown markings.
Seidel's armored catfish live in a wide range of rocky habitats at various depths up to 130 feet, researchers said. A photo shows one catfish in its natural habitat.
Previously, the new species had been known by several informal names, often including the word 'tiger,' the study said.
Researchers said they named the new species after Ingo Seidel, 'a renowned German aquarist whose decades of dedication to the care, understanding, and breeding of Hypancistrus species in captivity have made him a global authority … This species is named in recognition of his unwavering passion and invaluable contributions to the field.'
Seidel's armored catfish have a 'relatively large distribution' throughout Xingu River in northern Brazil, the study said. Some catfish released by 'aquarium fish traders' a few years ago have grown into a thriving population, showing 'their adaptability.'
The new species was mainly identified by its color pattern.
The research team included Leandro Melo de Sousa, Erilda Barbosa de Sousa, Renildo de Oliveira Ribeiro, Mark Sabaj, Jansen Zuanon and Lúcia Rapp Py-Daniel. The team also discovered a second new species of armored catfish.
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