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Mutizwa TI et al. 2026 (3)

Researchers examined specimens collected from several locations throughout the Zambezi River system. Earlier field observations had revealed considerable differences in body shape, skin texture, and colour patterns among fishes previously identified as Chiloglanis neumanni. The new study confirms that several of these populations represent separate species. This species is associated with the upper Zambezi and Okavango river systems, including the Kabompo River and its tributaries. Its most distinctive characteristics include relatively uniform brown colouration and numerous prominent ridge-shaped projections on the skin. These projections give the fish a rough, stone-like appearance. The combination of skin texture, colouration, and anatomical differences separates it from related species (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. Etymology: The name lapidis means stone in Latin, referring to its brown and rough textured skin of this species that gives it a stone-like appearance.

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Mochokidae

Africa: Upper Zambezi and Okavango river systems. Type locality: West Lumwana River at main road bridge, Mwinilunga District, West Lumwana River, Zambezi River system, Zambia, 11° 49' 31.0" S, 25° 07' 32.5" E.

4.0cm. (1½ins)

23-26°C (73-79°F)

6.5-7.2.

Fish in the News: 2026.
Mutizwa, T. I., Ntokoane, T., & Chakona, A. (2026). A deeper look into the diversity of suckermouth catfishes (Mochockidae: Chiloglanis Peters 1868) of southern Africa, with the description of four new species. Journal of Fish Biology, 1–22. First published: 14 October 2026.