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Mutizwa TI et al (2024) (3)

Abstract: The recent surge in the discovery of hidden diversity within rheophilic taxa, particularly in West and East Africa, prompted a closer examination of the extent to which the current taxonomy may obscure the diversity of riffle-dwelling suckermouth catfishes in the genus Chiloglanis in southern Africa. Currently, the region comprises eight valid species within this genus. Seven of them have relatively narrow geographic distribution ranges except for C. neumanni, which is considered to be widely distributed, occurring from the Buzi River system in the south, and its northern limit being the eastward draining river systems in Tanzania. Recent surveys of the middle Zambezi River system revealed Chiloglanis specimens that were distinguishable from the known species of the genus from southern Africa. Integration of molecular and morphological data indicated that these specimens from the Mukwadzi River represent a new species to science, herein described as Chiloglanis carnatus Mutizwa, Bragança & Chakona, sp. nov. This species is readily distinguished from its southern African congeners by the possession of a distinctive extended dermal tissue covering the base of the dorsal fin and the possession of ten mandibular teeth (vs 8, 12, or 14 in the other taxa). Results from this study add to the growing evidence of a high level of undocumented diversity within riffle-dwelling taxa in southern Africa (Mutizwa TI et al). Aquarium Care: Good oxygenated water from a power filter. Sand or gravel substrate with smooth rocks or pebbles. Their dorsal and pectoral fins are sharp and can cause wounds if not handled carefully. Sexual Differences: Usually in the form of a different shaped caudal fin. Diet: Mouth and dentition suggest that it is a bottom feeder and algal grazer. In the aquarium feed algae, fly larvae foods, bloodworm, and flake food. Remarks: Specimens have an extended dermal tissue covering the base of the dorsal fin that distinguishes them from C. swierstrai. Etymology: The specific epithet carnatus means fleshy, referring to the dermal tissue covering the base of the dorsal fin of some of the larger specimens of this species and the general robust body structure of this species compared to its regional congeners.

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Mochokidae

Africa: Middle Zambezi River. Type locality: Mukwadzi River near the bridge on the Mutorashanga Road.

5.0cm. (2ins)

23-26°C (73-79°F)

6.5-7.2.

Fish in the News: 2024.
Mutizwa TI, Kadye WT, Bragança PHN, Bere T, Chakona A (2024) Hidden in the riffles: A new suckermouth catfish (Mochokidae, Chiloglanis) from the middle Zambezi River system, Zimbabwe. ZooKeys 1197: 57-91.