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Pierre V, & Slobodian V, 2024 (3)

Abstract: A new species of Pimelodella is described from the Rio Paraguai basin in Mato Grosso do Sul and Mato Grosso States, Brazil. The new species distinguishes from all other members of the genus based on a unique combination of characteristics, which include: dorsal profile straight from snout to dorsal-fin, maxillary barbel reaching at least the anal-fin terminus when parallel to main body axis, robust dorsal-fin spine bearing small spinules along three-fourths of its posterior margin, 41–42 total vertebrae (rarely 43 or 44), 13–23 large and retrorse blades at the posterior margin of the pectoral-fin spine, and dorsolateral region of body slightly darkened.
This study also discusses the ichthyofaunal similarities between the Paraguai and Amazon basins, shedding light on their biogeographic history. Additionally, the research includes considerations about the sexual dimorphism of Pimelodella and provides an identification key for the Pimelodella species found in the Paraguai basin (Pierre V, & Slobodian V, 2024). Aquarium Care: Treat as you would do with any member of the Pimelodus in that they will be predatory on small fishes in the aquarium and it is also better to keep them in small groups rather than singularly, as this will dilute the aggression. Diet: Will eat any aquarium prepared foods such as tablets, pellets, frozen and live foods. Not fussy eaters. Etymology: The species name guato is in honour of the indigenous Guató people, who are affectionately known as “people of the Pantanal waters” due to their primary mode of transportation, canoes. Historically, the Guató people inhabited an extensive area along the Rio Paraguai (Schmidt, 1942). However, in the 1940s, they began to lose their territory due to cattle ranching, and many relocated to cities such as Cáceres and Corumbá. This dispersal led to a reduction in the Guató population, and since then, they have been fighting for recognition of their ethnicity and the demarcation of their lands (Costa, 2015). The choice of guato is a homage to the resilience and cultural significance of these people who inhabit the same region where the new species is found. It also recognizes the ongoing struggles with land delimitation that indigenous communities continue to face, particularly in Brazil. A noun in apposition.

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Heptapteridae

South America: Rio Paraguai basin in Mato Grosso do Sul and Mato Grosso States, Brazil.

8.0cm. (3¼ins)

23-26°C (73-79°F)

6.0-7.0.

Fish in the News: 2024.
Pierre, V., & Slobodian, V. (2024). A new species of Pimelodella (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) from the Paraguai basin, Brazil, with a discussion regarding its distribution. Neotropical Ichthyology, 22(1), e230110.