Chiloglanis paratus Crass, 1960
Sawfin suckermouth
Chiloglanis paratus
photo by Palmer, R.

Family:  Mochokidae (Squeakers or upside-down catfishes), subfamily: Chiloglanidinae
Max. size:  8.5 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater; pH range: 6 - 7.19999980926514; dH range: 15, potamodromous
Distribution:  Africa: Pongolo, Incomati and Limpopo rivers (Ref. 7248, 52193).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 1-1; Dorsal soft rays (total): 5-6; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 10-12. Description: Body robust (Ref. 52193). Head depressed; maxillary barbels moderate, mandibular barbels very short; teeth closely spaced, up to 12 (Ref. 52193). Dorsal fin with 1 spine and 5-6 soft rays; anal fin with 3 unbranched and 7-9 branched rays; the serrated or barbed spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins are hallmarks of this species; caudal fin forked (Ref. 52193).

Colouration: Skin rough, with small white warts; dark brown with black shadows; caudal fin with splayed dark brown bands on either lobe (Ref. 52193).

Biology:  Prefers rocky riffles and rapids but may be found in rocky pools or intermittent streams during low water conditions; migrates into seasonal streams, climbing damp barriers by clinging with the mouth (Ref. 7248, 52193). Oviparous (Ref. 205).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 03 July 2017 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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